Quinte Region Low Water Level 1 Declared

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2020

QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A LEVEL 1 LOW WATER CONDITIONS STATEMENT

A Level 1 Low Water Condition has been issued for the Quinte Conservation Watershed including the regions of the Moira, Napanee, and Salmon Rivers as well as all of Prince Edward County.

Despite higher than average water levels on the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario, minimal precipitation throughout the last few months has contributed to lower than average groundwater and surface water conditions throughout the watershed. The Quinte region has seen a dynamic shift in the spring weather and associated precipitation patterns in recent months. At the end of a very wet April, the Quinte region was well above seasonal accumulated rains, with well above normal stream flows. A sudden and large decline of precipitation in May and June has resulted in dry conditions, with a recent quick and noticeable decline in stream flows.

Residents and businesses are asked to reduce water usage by 10 percent for non-essential uses which includes taking shorter showers, turning the tap off to wash dishes and brush teeth, and watering plants at night and when possible, using rain barrel water to do so. Quinte Conservation encourages residents experiencing low water to report their conditions using an online form. The form can be found at: https://arcg.is/1zX8b5 or on the main page of the Quinte Conservation website, along with tips for water conservation, at www.QuinteConservation.ca.

A Level 1 Low Water Condition means the potential for water supply problems has been identified. A Level 1 condition is managed through existing programs of the Conservation Authorities, municipalities and other key provincial agencies. Low water conditions are ranked as Level 1, 2 or 3 based on a prolonged period of low flows or precipitation. A Level 1 is the least severe and Level 3 is the most severe.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) August 27, 2020.

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.