BERWICK, Ontario - The South Nation Conservation Water Response Team has maintained the Level 3 Low Water Condition across the SNC jurisdiction.
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Level 3 conditions indicate that water supply no longer meets demand in certain regions and ongoing drought conditions are putting increased pressure on surface and/or groundwater supplies. Under this advisory, all water users are asked to reduce water use and suspend non-essential water uses until natural supplies begin to recover.
The Level 3 condition was announced in late August following persistent hot and dry weather during July and August. Dry conditions continued through September, leading to several impacts across the region, including dried-up rivers and streams, poor water quality caused by stagnant water, and reduced groundwater levels affecting people who rely on private wells.
Current conditions
Although rainfall returned to more normal levels in October and November and has helped ease some dry conditions, the earlier water deficit was severe. Many residents are still experiencing impacts. Stream flows in many creeks and rivers have improved, but several remain lower than normal for this time of year. Groundwater resources take longer to recover, and impacts are still being observed across the jurisdiction.
Low water conditions are determined using precipitation and streamflow indicators under the province-wide Ontario Low Water Response Program.
- Level 1 (Minor): Early signs of a potential water supply problem.
- Level 2 (Moderate): A potentially serious water supply problem.
- Level 3 (Severe): Water supply is no longer able to meet demand.
Because residents on private wells continue to experience problems, the South Nation Conservation Water Response Team is extending the Level 3 Low Water Condition across the jurisdiction.
Recommended actions
All water users, including municipalities, residents, businesses, and farmers, are being asked to reduce water use, including the suspension of all outdoor non-essential water use.
If you hold a Permit to Take Water, reduce your water takings as much as possible. During low flow conditions, surface water takings can significantly impact water availability.
Residents should check their municipality’s website for current water use restrictions and fire bans.
This Level 3 Low Water Advisory will remain in effect until further notice.