WATER CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY

The following Watershed Conditions Statement has been released on the 10th June 2022 by the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority to provide an overview of current conditions.

Crowe Valley Conservation Authority staff have observed increases in lake levels and river flows throughout the watershed due to heavy rains in portions of the Crowe Valley watershed. Recorded flows throughout the watershed are higher than normal for this time of year. Levels and flows will continue to remain high for the foreseeable future and may increase with additional rainfall forecasted for the 12th of June and next week. CVCA staff are releasing additional water at dams throughout the watershed and flows will rise proportionately downstream of these structures.

Fortunately, no flooding is anticipated at this time. However, CVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies and to stay away from all water control structures including hydro plants. Parents need to inform their children there are dangers when fast flowing water is present. Therefore, it is especially crucial children and pets avoid rivers, streams and creeks with high flows. Water flowing through culverts may also be extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

CURRENT FLOWS IN RIVERS AND LARGER STREAMS OR CREEKS CAN EASILY SWEEP PEOPLE INTO A DANGEROUS SITUATION CAUSING HARM OR DROWNING ACCIDENTS. WATER PRESSURE ON THE UPSTREAM SIDE OF A DAM WILL PIN PEOPLE AGAINST THE STRUCTURE AND COULD RESULT IN A DROWNING DEATH.

All residents and visitors to the CVCA watershed should also pay attention to water conditions. Should a beaver dam unexpectedly fail, the water it releases can easily wash out a road in a very short period of time. Be alert when driving in the area.

CVCA staff will continue to monitor levels and flows daily and this Watershed Conditions Statement will be updated as conditions warrant. If there are any questions or concerns, contact Tim Pidduck, CVCA General Manager or Neil McConkey, Water Resources Supervisor at 613-472-3137. The CVCA watershed includes portions of the municipalities of Trent Hills, Stirling-Rawdon, Marmora and Lake, Havelock-Belmont-Methuen, North Kawartha, Wollaston, Limerick, Tudor and Cashel, Faraday and Highlands East.