The Otonabee Region Water Response Team (WRT) has lifted the Level 2 Low Water declaration, which was triggered by abnormally dry conditions that began in July and continued throughout August and September.
An unusually hot and dry July was followed by continued rainfall deficits in August, which in turn resulted in very low flows in some of our local streams. For example, the average flow of Jackson Creek during August was only 30% of its historical average flow for the month. In September, drought concerns continued to grow because of precipitation deficits that were 31 to 44 millimetres below normal for the month.
Frequent, and sometimes heavy, rainfall resulted in total October precipitation amounts that were 50 to 85 percent above normal. October’s surplus rainfall was sufficient to replenish soil moisture and return stream flows to normal or near normal conditions for this time of year.
At a meeting on November 7th, the Otonabee Region Water Response Team ended the Level 2 Low Water Condition as all drought concerns have been alleviated due to October’s abundant rainfall.
Members of the Otonabee Region WRT still urge all area residents and businesses to be wary of their water use. Water is a precious resource; continued wise use of water is encouraged now, and always. For ways to conserve water, view our Fact Sheet, Water Conservation In and Around Your Home.
The Ontario Low Water Response Program was developed by the Province to help coordinate and support local response in the event of a prolonged period of low stream flows or precipitation. There are three levels of Low Water Conditions with Level 1 being the least severe and Level 3 being the most severe.
The Otonabee Region Water Response Team includes representatives from local municipalities, water management agencies, tourism and agriculture, provincial and federal agencies, First Nations and Otonabee Conservation. For more information about the Low Water Response Program, visit www.otonabeeconservation.com.