The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority is confirming a Level III Low Water Statement, Indicating a failure of the water supply to meet demand.
Its key focus with this edict is on regulation & enforcement.
Over the past 90 days, rainfall across the Mississippi River watershed has remained below 70% of the long-term seasonal average, with further deterioration occurring in the last 30 days, as rainfall has fallen to less than 50% of the seasonal norm. Water levels across the system remain significantly below average and reservoir capacities are increasingly constrained.
Streams and tributaries of the river are drying up at alarming rates.
The MVCA is asking all water users that are not on the City of Ottawa’s municipal distribution network to reduce their water consumption by 50%
Those who have permits for taking water from surface or groundwater sources are asked to reduce their actual taking as much as possible.
Residents are urged to use rain barrels to water lawns and gardens and avoid using pressure washers.
Conservation Authority staff continue to monitor conditions and communicate with water managers throughout the watershed
Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels.
This message is in effect until an update has been issued.
By Rick Stow