Low Water Response
Low rainfall and hot weather can lead to low flows in our local creeks and streams, affecting the amount of water available for agriculture and industry, and the health of the ecosystem.
Kettle Creek Conservation Authority, in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, helps to coordinate and support local response in the event of a drought as part of the Ontario Low Water Response Program (OLWR).
KCCA uses a network of precipitation and stream gauges to determine Low Water Conditions throughout the watershed. Watershed conditions are analyzed on a monthly basis. There are three levels of low water conditions (Levels One, Two and Three) that are based on thresholds linked to precipitation records and stream flow monitoring data, together with watershed observations.
KCCA establishes and coordinates a watershed-based Water Response Team (WRT). This team consists of agriculture, industry and business, recreation and government representatives from the Kettle Creek watershed. The team assesses current precipitation and streamflow conditions in the watershed and responds in various ways to conserve our water resources. The response could range from issuing communications that advocate water conservation practices to making recommendations to the Province concerning water allocations.
Low Water Level Messages and What They Mean
Normal
No low water level conditions exist. However, residents and businesses are always encouraged to conserve water. Water is a precious resource; continued wise use of water has environmental and economic benefits.
Level 1
First indication of a potential water supply problem where precipitation levels have fallen below the 80% long term average and streamflow is below 70% of the lowest average summer flow. A 10% voluntary conservation of water usage by the public is requested.
Level 2
More severe condition where precipitation levels have fallen below the 60% long term average and streamflow is below 50% of the lowest average summer flow. A 20% voluntary conservation of water usage by the public is requested.
Level 3
Indicates failure of the water supply to meet the demand where precipitation levels have fallen below the 40% long term average and streamflow is below 30% of the lowest average summer flow. At the Level 3 low water condition, conservation, restriction and regulation of the remaining water supply is put into effect and it is mandatory.
A watershed is considered to be in drought conditions if it is experiencing:
- Below normal levels of precipitation over an extended period of time; or
- Streamflows that are at a minimum required to sustain aquatic life; or
- Low water conditions that are causing socio-economic effects.
Municipal outdoor water use bylaws
Many municipalities have their own water use bylaws that include restrictions onlawn watering, car washing and other activities. Consult your municipal website for more information.
Additional Information
CMHC Household Guide to Water Efficiency
Low Water Conditions Fact Sheet
Water Conservation Fact Sheet
Staff Contact
Jennifer Dow
Water Conservation Supervisor
Tel: (519) 631-1270 ext. 228
Email