News release
For immediate release
St. Thomas – Residents in the watershed of the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority are being asked to voluntarily reduce their non-essential water use by 20 per cent due to the ongoing and persistent dry conditions throughout the watershed.
As of October 13, the Kettle Conservation Authority’s Low Water Response Team has declared a Level 2 Low Water Condition for the KCCA watershed. KCCA has not been in a Level 2 Low Water Condition since August 2012. A Level 1 Low Water Condition has been in effect since July, however a very dry September has resulted in worsening conditions.
“Typically as the Fall approaches we should expect to see an increase in precipitation as seasonal thunderstorms and wetter weather pass through the area. However, this year we have not received enough to improve streamflow,” says Jennifer Dow, water conservation supervisor. “This summer was unusually dry and has resulted in extremely dry creeks throughout the watershed. We will continue to monitor the conditions and keep the public informed of any changes in the watershed.”
Based on criteria set out by the provincial government in its Low Water Response Plan, the result is a Level 2 Low Water Condition for the entire Kettle Creek watershed. A Level 2 Low Water Condition is declared when precipitation falls below the 60% of the long term average and streamflow falls below 50% of the lowest average summer month flow.
Residents are reminded to follow any water restriction by-laws in their municipality (such as watering on alternate days). Non-essential water use refers to: watering lawns, vegetable gardens, flower gardens, filling pools, and washing vehicles.
[callout title=”Download” link=”http://www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Low-water-2-2016.pdf”]Low Water Frequently Asked Questions[/callout]
For more information please visit us at www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca or connect with us socially on Facebook/Twitter or jennifer@kettlecreekconservation.on.ca.
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For more information:
Jennifer Dow
Water Conservation Supervisor
Tel: 519-631-1270 ext. 227