Cataraqui Conservation issued a Watershed Conditions Statement on Friday to inform the public that local dam operators in the Cataraqui region are performing routine operations due to seasonal changes, including above freezing temperatures.
Currently, there is an above average snowpack, with some areas containing over 150 per cent of average water equivalent.
Water Managers, who operate dams on inland lakes, are increasing outflows through water control structures to keep water levels within targets for this time of year in preparation for the spring freshet (snow melt).
Ice conditions are expected to deteriorate over the coming days and weeks, becoming unsafe. Cataraqui Conservation does not measure ice thickness for advising the public about ice conditions for recreational activities. Ice conditions can vary considerably from one waterbody to the next and within a single waterbody.
Cataraqui Conservation is urging caution around all dams (inflow and outflow channels) and fast-flowing watercourses. Respect the hazards in these areas by obeying all warning signs, keeping away from booms, buoys, and barriers. Stay well back from the water’s edge above and below dams and hydroelectric stations. Creek banks and lake shorelines may be slippery, increasing the chance of falling in.
Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts and will update statements as needed. This Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 11:59 p.m.
For up-to-date flooding information, please visit Cataraqui’s flood forecasting and information page at www.crca.ca
As part of Cataraqui Conservation’s flood forecasting and warning program, staff are collecting information to help track flood events. Property owners who are experiencing flooding impacts on their land or business is asked to fill in a brief questionnaire at the following link: https://crca.ca/watershed-management/watershed-information/flood/.