Rainfall continues to be in short supply throughout the Lower Trent Conservation (LTC) watershed region. As a result, LTC has declared a Level III Low Water Condition, as severe drought conditions are now being experienced throughout the watershed region. This replaces the previous declaration of a Level II Low Water Condition made on September 11, 2025.
The July to September 3-month rainfall total recorded by Environment Canada at Trenton was 93.6 millimeters, which is 40 percent of normal precipitation for this time of year (231 mm). While the September rainfall total recorded was 18.4 millimeters, which is 20 percent of normal precipitation for the month of September (90.1 mm). A 1-month or 3-month period with precipitation below 40 percent of average is a trigger for Level III Low Water. Monthly streamflows in some of our local creeks have dropped below the 50% threshold of the Lowest Average Summer Month (LASM) flows, which remains a trigger for Level II Low Water. As a result, drought conditions may continue in the coming weeks. During this time, Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions to determine if additional actions should be taken.
Under a Level III Low Water Condition, residents, businesses, industries, and municipalities are asked to voluntarily reduce their water use by 30%. Lower Trent Conservation encourages everyone to use water wisely and apply water conservation measures. Non-essential water uses should be suspended until natural water supplies recover. Those who hold a Permit to Take Water from the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change are asked to reduce their water taking by 30% as well.
Residents can help conserve water by using rain barrels to capture rain for watering lawns and gardens, limiting vehicle washing, etc. Lower Trent Conservation staff urge rural residents to be wary of their water use. Water is a precious resource – continued wise use of water is encouraged now and always. Municipalities that source water from Lake Ontario or the Bay of Quinte have access to a more sustainable water supply. The delivery of water to residents on these systems is not impacted by current conditions.
If water supply on private systems becomes low or dry, well owners are encouraged to review the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) information for managing wells (https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage#section-2). Those in need of bulk potable water supply should check with their local municipality for availability and information on private water haulers.
Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions and report new information as it becomes available. To learn more about Ontario’s Low Water Response program visit the website at www.LTC.on.ca. Residents can report any low water observations using the Low Water Reporting Form on their website.
(HAILEY MACDONALD)
