Drought, low water conditions rise to Level III

The Nottawasaga Valley Water Response Team (WRT), working in conjunction with the provincial government, advises that the average flows within the Mad, Pine, Boyne and mid- Nottawasaga Rivers, have declined to a Level II low water condition. Innisfil Creek remains at Level II, however, it has been recommended by the WRT to the Ontario Water Directors to be declared a Level III.

"The situation is getting serious as some of the watercourses are being negatively impacted," said Brian Smith, water resource technologist, with the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority.

The WRT has been established 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.

Residents within the watersheds are being encouraged to cut down on water use by 20%. Municipalities are encouraged to continue and/or impose water restriction by-laws and encourage the implementation of water saving measures (low water use devices, rain barrels, etc).

If water use is not curtailed and flows decline to Level III condition, mandatory water use restrictions may be imposed.