Rainfall continues to be in short supply throughout the Lower Trent Conservation (LTC) watershed
region. As a result, LTC has declared a Level II Low Water Condition, as moderate drought conditions
are now being experienced throughout the watershed region. This replaces the previous declaration of
a Level 1 Low Water Condition made on August 8, 2025.
The June to August 3-month rainfall totals recorded by Environment Canada at Trenton was 106.5
millimeters, which is 49 percent of normal precipitation for this time of year (220 mm). A 1-month or 3-
month precipitation below 60 percent is the trigger for Level II 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 is a trigger for Level II Low Water. Specifically, Rawdon Creek, Trout Creek
and Hoards (Squires) Creek are currently the most impacted with reduced water levels and
streamflows. 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 II Low Water Condition, residents, businesses, industries, and municipalities are asked to
voluntarily reduce their water use by 20%. 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
Environment, Conservation and Parks are asked to reduce their water taking by 20% as well.
Residents can help conserve water by using rain barrels to capture rain for watering lawns and
gardens, limiting vehicle washing and other reduction activities. 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.
Droughts can cause many severe impacts on the environment and communities including:
• Water shortages for human consumption, industrial, business and agriculture use;
• Decline of water quality;
• Increase in wildfires;
• Increases in insect infestations and plant disease.
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 our website at
www.LTC.on.ca. Residents can report any low water observations using the Low Water Reporting Form
on our website.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
