With Quinte Conservation’s Level 3 Low Water Condition now extended through late November, there are concerns the long-range forecast does not project any significant precipitation events before the ground freezes.
Water Resources Manager Christine Phillibert says the drought could last into the winter.
Once the ground freezes, any precipitation that falls does not go into the groundwater system.
“What that means is the levels that we go into the winter with, have to sustain us through that winter period. Which means we could have a more limited supply to meet all of the winter demands if we don’t get those melts in the winter that help replenish the ground water system.”
Quinte Conservation is asking residents in its watershed to voluntarily reduce water consumption by 30 per cent or more.
Phillibert says showering is one of the biggest water users.
“So if you can take a quicker shower, if you can turn off the water and lather up. Those little bits do add up. If you have any fixtures in your house that are leaky, getting those repaired would be a big help as well.”
She notes that just because your well may have lots of water, others close to you may not.
“Our ground water table is connected and so your water use could be impacting the water supply that’s available at your neighbour’s house. Each well may behave differently but certainly they can impact each other.”
The region experienced similar drought conditions late into the year in 2016.
“And it took a long time for us to get out of that drought but we did manage to recover quite a bit before the winter started and before the ground froze. So that’s what we’re hoping for this year.”
The public can help Quinte Conservation track the impacts of the Level 3 Low Water Condition.
Individuals or businesses in the Quinte watersheds who experience problems, such as wells going dry, can fill out the online low water form.
More tips on water conservation can be found on the Quinte Conservation’s drought information webpage.
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