MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED—The Mississippi Valley Low Water Response Team has declared a Level 1 Low Water status under the Ontario Low Water Response Program.

“Dry weather continues to dominate the Mississippi Valley watershed, causing flows and water levels to drop.” Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority water resource technologist Jennifer North released in a statement today (July 13). “With very little rainfall in the forecast, rain amounts for July are expected to have negligible impact on existing conditions. Significant rainfall over a large portion of the watershed will be required to return the watershed to normal conditions.”

The MVCA is urging water users to reduce their water consumption by 10 per cent in order to help mitigate the impacts of low water conditions.

“Residents are encouraged to conserve water by capturing precipitation using rain barrels to water lawns and gardens, and to avoid using pressure washers,” North said. “Please check your municipalities’ website for current water usage restrictions.”

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website here.