Mississippi Valley Conservation (MVC) is continuing its Level II Low Water Conditions declaration (originally declared July 17, 2012). This is pursuant to the decision of the Mississippi Valley Water Response Team (MVWRT) Tuesday morning.

Despite the moderate rainfall the watershed has received in August, there remains a water deficit in the region. Streamflows and precipitation levels are still below average for this time of year.

“The rainfall has helped revitalize grass and vegetation but has not dramatically affected surface water flows. Higher volumes of rainfall are still needed to begin the recovery process,” explains Gord Mountenay, MVC Water Management Supervisor.

Under a Level II Low Water Condition, watershed residents, businesses and industries throughout the Mississippi Valley are asked to reduce their water use by 20%, including those who hold a Permit to Take Water issued by the Ministry of the Environment. MVC encourages the wise use of water. Non-essential water uses should be suspended until natural water supplies have recovered.

Residents should be aware of any municipal water use related bylaws and bans in effect at this time.  The urban/suburban City of Ottawa water is supplied by the Ottawa River as such its residents are not affected by this Level II Low Water Condition declaration.

Should the warm and dry conditions persist, conservation measures and limits to navigation may need to be applied. Boaters need to be cautious on lakes other than the reservoir lakes which do not have control structures that keep the water level elevated.

The MVLWRT will continue to monitor conditions and report new information as it becomes available. To learn more about Ontario’s Low Water Response program visit: http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/Water/2ColumnSubPage/STEL02_164583.html.

Any individuals or businesses in the Mississippi River Watershed who may be experiencing unusual problems or hardships due to low water are encouraged to contact MVC by calling 613-259-2421 ext. 233 or 243. Find tips on conserving water and daily water levels and flows on the MVC website at www.mvc.on.ca.

Contact:
Gord Mountenay, C.E.T.
Water Management Supervisor
613-259-2421 ext. 233
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it     www.mvc.on.ca