WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY

Message # 2026-05
Issued: 10:00 a.m., Friday March 13, 2026

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY issued for the Trent-Severn Waterway and all local watercourses within the jurisdiction of Otonabee Conservation.

A WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY has been issued due to the recent warm temperatures, rainfall, and melting snow and ice, which have created hazardous conditions near creeks, streams, rivers, and lakes. There are currently no flooding concerns.

In anticipation of March Break next week, Otonabee Conservation is reminding residents that staying away from shorelines, riverbanks, and off the ice is the best way to stay safe this spring.
 
Shorelines and streambanks may be slippery and unstable due to saturated soils and erosion.  Increased temperatures and high flows are causing ice conditions to becoming unstable.  Runoff from rain and snowmelt have caused water levels to rise and increased flows. This has created dangerous conditions and Otonabee Conservation reminds residents and visitors to stay away from shorelines and off the ice.  

Otonabee Conservation reminds everyone—especially those living near waterways—to use extreme caution during this period. Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak with children about the dangers of playing near the water.

Dams and culverts are dangerous at any time of year and should always be avoided.

In an emergency call 911 immediately.
 
Through its Flood Forecasting and Warning Program, Otonabee Conservation actively monitors water levels, flows, weather forecasts and other factors to alert our partners in flood emergency management about current and forecasted watershed conditions relevant to flooding. Water levels can be monitored at Trent-Severn Waterway, Water Survey of Canada and Otonabee Conservation websites.

This WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY message will expire Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 3 p.m., unless up-dated earlier. 

Gordon Earle | Flood Forecasting & Warning Duty Officer | 705-745-5791 x 214
250 Milroy Drive, Peterborough, ON K9H 7M9
orcafloodduty@otonabeeconservation.com