2026-08-06 QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES UPDATED WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY DUE TO RECENT RAINFALL

The Quinte region has experienced a wetter than normal summer season. This summer rivers and lakes have been well above normal levels for this time of year. These levels although unseasonally high, were below or within the range normally experienced in the springtime after the snowmelt induced freshet.

Over the past holiday weekend, upwards of 80mm of rainfall was measured in the watershed during a 24-hour period, most of which occurred overnight. This is approximately a 1 in 25 year rainfall event. This rain overwhelmed several beaver dams causing a quick release of the beaver ponds. Those incidents, combined with natural runoff have increased water levels to what is typical of spring conditions. Several road washouts have been attributed to beaver dam failures. Quinte Conservation does not forecast or monitor beaver dam breaches.

In response, Quinte Conservation has been operating watershed dams to manage the quick increase in water levels brought on from the weekend’s weather events. Water levels and future forecasts are being closely monitored.

It should be noted that the current conditions are temporary and have already begun to recede. Rivers and lakes in the upper Moira watershed, down to and including Stoco Lake have all peaked and there is no further risk of riverine flooding. The Moira River downstream of Stoco Lake will peak later today. Big Clear Lake in the Salmon River watershed has peaked, downstream lakes are expected to peak in the next 24 hours. The Depot Lakes are approaching their peak. Both lakes and rivers are currently above seasonal levels but remain below levels that would impact buildings. Areas along the Moira River, Moira Lake and Stoco Lake have experienced a sharp rise in water levels which are now slowly receding. Similarly, Kennebec Lake, Big Clear Lake, Horseshoe Lake and the Depot Lakes experienced a sharp rise in water levels which has since slowed. Shoreline infrastructure, such as docks and their height settings, may be affected for the near future. Depending on additional rains received, notable higher water levels may persist for several weeks. Water levels in lakes and flows in rivers are likely to be above seasonal levels entering the fall.

Weather Forecast: There are no notable storm systems currently in the forecasts. However, shoreline residents and property owners are encouraged to monitor weather forecasts for large rainfall or thunderstorm activity. As waterways are full, there is reduced capacity to accept additional rains. Quick responses to large amounts of rainfall should be expected until more seasonal conditions are restored.

Watershed Conditions: Rivers have all peaked and there is no further risk of riverine flooding. Both lakes and rivers are currently above seasonal levels but remain below levels that would impact buildings. Areas along the Moira River and Stocco Lake have experienced a sharp rise in water levels which will respond quickly and peak within in the next few hours.

Risks: Residents are advised to remain cautious around fast flowing water until levels have resumed to normal seasonal levels (approximately 7 days).

Actions: Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect their property and secure loose items. Ensure sump pumps are in good working condition and have access to a portable backup generator and pump. Help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions.

A Water Safety Statement indicates that high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for users such as anglers, boaters, swimmers, children, or pets. Flooding is not expected.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) August 10, 2026

Additional Information: Staff will continue to monitor conditions. For current water levels or to report changes in water levels, residents are encouraged to visit QuinteConservation.ca.

Quinte Conservation is a community-based environmental protection agency. It serves 18 municipalities in the watersheds of the Moira, Napanee and Salmon Rivers and Prince Edward County. It provides cost-effective environmental expertise and leadership. Quinte Conservation’s main goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where people and nature live in harmony. More information about Quinte Conservation is available at www.quinteconservation.ca.

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For more information contact:
Dave Eastcott, Water Resources Technologist
(613) 968-3434 ext. 126 OR (613) 354-3312 ext. 126