Lower Trent Conservation has declared a Level 1 Low Water Condition, signalling minor drought conditions across the watershed region. The affected area extends from Grafton to Quinte West and from Lake Ontario north to Rice Lake and south of Madoc.
Environment Canada’s rainfall measurements at Trenton showed a three-month total of 206 millimetres from May to July – about 91 percent of the seasonal average. However, officials note that most of this came in May, while June and July combined brought just 38 percent of typical rainfall.
Streamflow levels in local creeks have dropped below the 70 percent threshold compared to historical summer averages, which is one of the key indicators used to trigger a Level 1 advisory.
Lower Trent Conservation warns that drought can lead to water shortages for homes, businesses, farms and industry, as well as poorer water quality, more wildfires, and increased risk of plant disease and insect infestation.
The public is asked to voluntarily reduce water use by 10 percent, following the recommendations outlined in Ontario’s Low Water Response program.
Staff are continuing to monitor streamflow and precipitation trends to assess if further action is needed. More information and a Low Water Reporting Form are available online at www.LTC.on.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
