Low water condition in Nottawasaga strike early

The Nottawasaga Valley Water Response Team (WRT) working in conjunction with the Provincial Government advises that the average flows within the Nottawasaga River and its tributaries are below or near a Level I low water condition.

The WRT has been activated in response to this summer's hot, dry weather to assist the local community with the implementation of actions to reduce and better manage water use.

The current Level I low water condition is based on calculations which confirm that current flows are less than 70% of the lowest average summer flow at gauging stations within the watershed.

All watershed residents are being encouraged to cut down on water use for agricultural and domestic uses by 10%. Municipalities are encouraged to educate residents and consider voluntary restrictions on water use.

The lack of rainfall has brought the low flows early as the months of August and September are historically the time period when the Nottawasga watershed experiences the lowest flows of the year.

The current two week forecast suggests ongoing dry conditions. If caution in water use is not practiced, the flows may decline to a more serious condition in which mandatory water use restrictions are imposed.

Residents within the watershed are encouraged to visit the following Internet address for details on the Provincial Water Response program.

http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/mnr/w ater/p774.html