Water levels improve slightly across Ottawa region watersheds

Increased precipitation in October and November provided some reprieve for local watersheds, but as freezing temperatures settle in, low water levels could remain.

“Despite these improvements, notable residual deficits remain within the upper watershed region,” a notice from the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) states. “Water levels within the upper reservoir lakes remain well below the long-term historic average, and some private wells may still be vulnerable to water-supply constraints.”

Since Nov. 20, the RVCA and the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) have downgraded from a Level 3 Low Water Condition to a Level 2, noting some progress. The South Nation Conservation Authority (SNCA) remains with a Level 3 Low Water Condition, first declared in August.

High heat characterized the summer, with temperatures in the mid-20s into August. It was also one of the region’s driest summers since 2012.

Environment Canada’s 10-day forecast indicates near seasonal temperatures and moderate mixed precipitation for the week. The RVCA also says 30-day precipitation totals are slightly above average, ranging from 130 per cent to 160 per cent of the seasonal normal.

But as temperatures drop, it might just be too late to recover water levels.

A memo from the RVCA and the MVCA to Ottawa City Council says that surface-level water will replenish more quickly than groundwater, which can have further impact on well systems.

Neither the city nor the conservation authorities have the jurisdiction to mandate water conservation on private wells, but they are recommending individuals with private wells reduce their water consumption by 20 per cent.

“It is ultimately up to the property owner to manage their water use responsibly and to follow the recommendations of the Conservation Authorities,” the memo states. “The City is reminding residents in impacted Wards of the need to conserve water by installing signage at key intersections.”

At this time, the city’s central drinking water system is not being impacted. The memo states that this system draws less than one per cent of the Ottawa River’s flow and therefore there is ample water available.

In the event the city’s drinking water system was impacted, the General Manager of Infrastructure and Water Services has the authority to restrict water usage, the city says.

Those who require access to showers can access facilities at any municipal pool during operating hours. A full list of facilities and schedules can be found on the city’s website.