(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Parks Canada advises that, due to prolonged dry conditions and limited precipitation across the watershed, water levels on the Trent-Severn Waterway are expected to gradually recede to the minimum or below the navigable range after the close of the 2025 navigation season on October 14, 2025.
As a result, water levels may gradually recede more than usual following the end of the season for the lakes in the Kawartha sector from Lock 19 through Lock 36. The potential impacts for boaters due to the level recession below the minimum navigation level may be felt specifically in Lovesick Lake, Lower Buckhorn Lake, Sturgeon Lake, Cameron Lake, Scugog Lake, and Balsam Lake.
Vessel owners and operators are encouraged to consider this when planning for haul-out and winterization, taking into account their draft specifications. Cottagers, marinas, and boaters are also advised to prepare accordingly.
The Trent-Severn Waterway Water Management Team continues to monitor conditions daily and will make operational adjustments as required to respond to changing watershed circumstances. Updates regarding water levels and flow conditions are communicated through local Conservation Authorities.