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LOW WATER RESPONSE

In recent years, eastern Ontario has been experiencing low precipitation events and higher temperatures. These weather conditions cause lower surface water levels and dryer soil conditions. As these weather conditions continue and water demand increases, we will continue to experience an increase in low water patterns.

The Ontario Low Water Response plan was prepared by the provincial government to deal with low water conditions in Ontario to ensure provincial preparedness, assist in coordination and support local response in an event of a drought.

To determine the presence and severity of a low water event, we evaluate various indicators such as precipitation and stream flow in our watershed.


Precipitation is an important and convenient indicator to use. By reviewing the trends in precipitation we can determine if an impending water shortage is immanent.

Stream flow is measured by using information acquired by gauges installed throughout our watershed. This data is used to determine if there is enough water to meet the basic needs of the ecosystem, as well as for other uses such as recreation and irrigation.

After reviewing all the necessary information, and if a low water condition is determined, the severity is evaluated. The following table outlines each condition level and the recommended actions.

Condition

Indicator

Action

 

Precipitation

Stream Flow

 

Level I

<80% of average

Spring – monthly flow <100% lowest average summer month flow

Other times – monthly flow <70% of lowest average summer month flow

Voluntary Conservation

Level II

<60% of average weeks with <7.6 mm

Spring – monthly flow <70% lowest average summer month flow

Other times – monthly flow <50% of lowest average summer month flow

Conservation and Restrictions on Non-Essential Use

Level III

<40% of average

Spring – monthly flow <50% lowest average summer month flow

Other times – monthly flow <30% of lowest average summer month flow

Conservation, Restriction and Regulation

A watershed-based water response team (WRT) has been created to coordinate local activities and contain members from the following sectors:

  • Agriculture
  • Rural private industry
  • Business
  • Recreation
  • Resource management interests
  • First Nations
  • Municipal government
  • Provincial government

    • WRT identifies the actions required to manage the response to drought or low water conditions and carries them out. These actions will maximize water supply, reduce demand or do both.





    These two pictures have been taken at the Spencerville Dam on August and October 2006 respectively. The first picture shows a low water event that took place during the summer 2006. Normal levels are shown in the second picture.