2024 - 04 - 18 Quinte Conservation Issues A Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety Statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 17, 2024

QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY STATEMENT

Recent rainfall events have led to elevated water levels across the Quinte Conservation watershed. While water levels are significantly higher than they were earlier this spring, they are within the expected range for this time of year. Flooding throughout the watershed is not anticipated.

Water levels are at or nearing their high point for the season, but remain below typical spring-time conditions, despite exceeding those generated by earlier snowmelt. Larger lakes are approaching their normal summer levels but are not expected to reach their flood stage. Smaller unmanaged lakes and creek systems may be reaching higher peak levels, typical for this time of year. Riverine flooding in major waterways is also not expected.

Quinte Conservation anticipates 30 mm of rain to fall over the next two days, with more to follow next week. Since this will prolong high water levels, Quinte Conservation has been operating dams in advance of forecast rainfall to mitigate potential impacts.

The public is advised to exercise caution when near rivers and waterbodies and to stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, and unstable banks.

Quinte Conservation recommends securing loose items, docks, and boats to the shoreline or removing them during these types of events.

Staff will continue to monitor conditions. For current water levels or to report changes in water levels, residents are encouraged to visit quinteconservation.ca.

A WATER SAFETY STATEMENT indicates that high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for users such as anglers, boaters, swimmers, children, or pets. Flooding is not expected.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) Tuesday, May 6, 2024.

About Quinte Conservation

Quinte Conservation is a community-based environmental protection agency that serves 18 municipalities in the watersheds of the Moira, Napanee and Salmon Rivers, and Prince Edward County. Our programs, services and working alongside residents create a sustainable ecosystem where people and nature live in harmony. More information about Quinte Conservation is available at www.quinteconservation.ca.

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