WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT - WATER SAFETY, EXTENDED
DATE: March 18, 2026
TIME: 12:00PM
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Based on current watershed conditions and the most recent weather forecast, Kawartha Conservation is extending the Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety for the Kawartha watershed through to 12:00 PM Monday, March 23, 2026.
Water levels and flows across the majority of the watershed continue to gradually decline following recent rainfall and accelerated snowmelt earlier this week. However, additional precipitation combined with rising temperatures and forecast mixed precipitation are expected to contribute to further snowmelt and runoff over the coming days. This may result in localized increases in water levels and faster flows, particularly in smaller tributaries and urban drainage systems which respond more quickly to changing conditions.
Ground conditions remain saturated and streambanks are slippery, soft, and unstable. High flows and cold water temperatures continue to create hazardous conditions near rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes.
Ice cover on lakes and rivers is deteriorating and unsafe. Fluctuating temperatures can weaken ice quickly, increasing the risk of breakthrough. Ice movement remains possible in areas with a history of ice jamming, although widespread flooding is not expected at this time.
Flooding is not anticipated.
Residents are advised to exercise caution near all watercourses. Parents and pet owners are reminded to keep children and pets away from fast moving water and unstable banks. Anglers, canoeists, hikers, and other recreational users should avoid waterways until conditions further stabilize.
Northern tributaries such as the Burnt River and Gull River continue to be monitored by staff from the Ministry of Natural Resources. Residents along these rivers are requested to direct questions concerning water levels to the Minden Area Office at 705-286-1521 or refer to current flood messages issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Kawartha Conservation will continue to monitor watershed and weather conditions closely and remains in communication with municipal partners, the Trent-Severn Waterway, the Ministry of Natural Resources - Surface Water Monitoring Centre, and neighboring Conservation Authorities.
Updates will be provided as conditions warrant.
If you are aware of or have concerns about flooding, please contact Kawartha Conservation at 705.328.2271 or 705.344.0155 after hours.
This Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety will remain in effect until 12:00 PM Monday, March 23, 2026, or will be updated or rescinded as required.
Nancy Aspden
Director, Integrated Watershed Management
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety implies unsafe conditions on local watercourses. High flows, unstable banks, melting ice, or other factors may pose a danger to recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, and pets. Flooding is not expected.
