2025-11-06 LEVEL 3 LOW WATER CONDITION REMAINS IN EFFECT FOR QUINTE WATERSHED

Quinte Conservation would like to remind the public that the Level 3 Low Water Condition issued on October 22 is still in effect for the Quinte watershed. Recent rainfall has started to provide some relief to the dry conditions, but it has not yet alleviated the water supply issues that some residents are experiencing. On-going and future significant rain is required to make up for the deficit in water supply over the last 5 months. October rainfall amounts were near normal for this time of year; however, seasonal precipitation amounts were well below average.

Although October brought some rain, it wasn’t enough to fully restore water levels across the Quinte watershed. Most streams are currently flowing at only 15% or less of normal for this time of year. One exception is Depot Creek, which remains one-third of its typical November flow due to low flow augmentation from the Depot Lakes.

Low water impacts continue to be experienced across the watershed. Residents and businesses should continue to reduce water consumption.

A Level 3 Low Water Condition indicates a failure of the water supply to meet the demand. Restrictions on water use may be imposed by municipalities or under the Water Resources Act. A 30% reduction or more in water consumption is requested.

Individuals or businesses in the Quinte watersheds who experience problems or hardships, such as wells going dry, can fill out the low water form, online at QuinteConservation.ca. These reports will help the organization track the impacts of the Low Water Condition. Quinte Conservation will continue to monitor precipitation and stream flows and provide updates. Tips on water conservation can be found on the Quinte Conservation’s drought information webpage.

Quinte Conservation is the lead for the local Water Response Team (WRT). The team includes representatives from municipalities, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, and local industry. Water Response Team monitors local conditions carefully and works with local water users to reduce demand and mitigate the effects of water shortages.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) November 26, 2025.

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For more information contact:

Christine Phillibert, Water Resources Manager (613) 968-3434 ext. 130