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PERTH, May 15, 2023 – Staff and volunteers duelled thick grass, invasive species and hardened shorelines last weekend as they planted nearly 1,200 native trees, shrubs and wildflowers along the Tay River in Last Duel Park.
The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) partnered with the Town of Perth to implement the major shoreline naturalization project at the former campground. Environment and Climate Change Canada’s (ECCC) Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund provided funding.
All told, staff and volunteers helped naturalize more than 350 metres of shoreline on May 13.
The new plantings in three areas along the existing pathway left room for three lookouts over the Tay River, and in some areas favoured low-growing plants to preserve the view for path users.
Natural shorelines are the “ribbon of life,” with more than 90% of lake and river species depending on the intersection of land and water at some point during their life cycles. Natural shorelines also help to reduce erosion as deep-rooted native plants and trees hold the soil in place in the face of wake, wind and runoff. They also slow stormwater so it has time to soak into the ground, filtering contaminants in the process and improving local water quality.
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Town of Perth to bring this project to life,” said RVCA’s shoreline naturalization co-ordinator Brandon Holden. “It may not look like much right now, but once these plants and trees take root residents will reap the benefits of this healthy shoreline for decades to come.”
This won’t be the last duel for the new shoreline plants, though. They’ll contend with competing grasses and invasive species for at least three years as the new plants take root and begin to grow. To aid them in their battle, coir mats have been deployed to suppress weeds and grasses around many of the seedlings. While the planting areas are designated no-mow zones, some maintenance may be required if existing grasses or invasive species begin to out-compete the native plants.
“We extend a huge thanks to the volunteers who came out over the Mother’s Day weekend to improve their park and support natural climate solutions in their community,” said Shannon Baillon, Director of Community Services at the Town of Perth. “We look forward to enjoying a more beautiful shoreline for years to come.”
RVCA offers generous financial and technical support for shoreline naturalization for any waterfront landowners in the Rideau Valley watershed. Learn more and book a site visit at https://www.rvca.ca/stewardship-grants/shoreline-naturalization/shoreline-naturalization-program.
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PORTLAND, May 11, 2023 – Residents worried about water quality and algae blooms in the Rideau Lakes and nearby waterways can now take matters in their own hands.
The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) has partnered with Rideau Lakes Township, Cataraqui Conservation and Big Rideau Lake Association to sell rain barrels this month as part of its ongoing sustainable drainage project in Portland and surrounding areas.
Installing a rain barrel is an easy, inexpensive step residents can take to reduce runoff and keep contaminants out of their lake. The barrel is placed under an eavestrough or gutter to catch rainwater as it drains off roofs and other hardened surfaces. During dry periods, the stored water can be used to water the garden.
This storage system stops stormwater from carrying harmful chemicals, sediments and excess nutrients into our lakes and rivers.
“When rainwater rushes across roads, laneways and fields, it picks up all sorts of nutrients and possible contaminants that can hurt our lakes,” said Mike Yee, an RVCA planner and committee member on the sustainable drainage project. “When we slow stormwater down or store it for later, we see fewer algae blooms, fewer unwanted aquatic plants and better overall water quality.”
Rain barrels and accessories can be purchased at www.rainbarrel.ca/rvca for pickup at Portland Bay Conservation Area on Friday, May 26 from 3 to 7 p.m. Residents can see a demonstration rain barrel in action while they’re on site, which also features a rain garden to help soak up runoff from major storms.
Money raised from the sale will support continued sustainable drainage efforts in Portland and the surrounding area.
For program information and for sustainable drainage resources visit https://www.rvca.ca/sustainable-drainage-pilot-project-portland.
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Water Conditions Statement: Flood Warning — Lower Ottawa River
May 10, 2023 — This FLOOD WARNING statement is an update to the Flood Warning issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on May 2nd, 2023.
Water levels along the main stem of the Ottawa River reached peak levels on May 5th and 6th due to above normal snow melt in the upper region of the basin this spring, combined with large regional rain events that occurred over several days in late April and early May.
Based on Ottawa River Regulating Committee forecasts, it is expected that water levels will continue to slowly decline along the main stem of the Ottawa River. Water levels are expected to remain high for the next few weeks.
Affected locations include flood-prone areas at Chats Lake, Constance Bay area, Britannia / Lac Deschênes, Cumberland, City of Clarence-Rockland, Township of Alfred Plantagenet, and other vulnerable areas down to Carillion Dam.
Peak river conditions remain dependent on the amount of rainfall received. Forecast levels over a four-day period are provided at the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board website (Forecasts - Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board) and updated daily as conditions could change quickly. Wind and wave effects are not included in this forecast and water levels could fluctuate due to high wind gusts.
Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.
The Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, and South Nation Conservation Authorities monitor water levels and weather forecasts with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.
The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit: www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.
This FLOOD WARNING STATEMENT is in effect until May 23, 2023 at 5:00 PM. Updates will be provided as conditions change.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Brian Stratton
RVCA Manager Engineering Services
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
Definitions:
- Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.
- Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions.
- Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
- Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
-end-
Déclaration sur l’état de la rivière, mise à jour no 3 : Avertissement de crue: - Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais
10 mai 2023 — Cet AVERTISSEMENT DE CRUE est une mise à jour de l’avertissement de crue émis le 2 mai 2023 pour les secteurs situées le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d’Arnprior à Hawkesbury).
Les niveaux d'eau le long du bras principal de la rivière des Outaouais ont atteint une pointe les 5 et 6 mai en raison d'une fonte des neiges supérieure à la normale dans la région supérieure du bassin ce printemps, combinée à d'importantes précipitations régionales qui se sont produites pendant plusieurs jours à la fin du mois d'avril et au début du mois de mai.
Selon les prévisions du Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais, on s'attend à ce que les niveaux d'eau continuent de baisser lentement le long du bras principal de la rivière des Outaouais. Les niveaux d'eau devraient rester élevés au cours des prochaines semaines.
Les endroits touchés comprennent les secteurs sujets aux inondations du lac des Chats, de la région de la baie Constance, de Britannia / Lac Deschênes, de Cumberland, de la Cité de Clarence-Rockland, du canton d’Alfred et Plantagenet et d’autres zones vulnérables jusqu'au barrage de Carillion.
Les conditions de pointe de la rivière dépendent de la quantité de pluie reçue. Les niveaux prévus pour une période de quatre jours sont indiqués sur le site Web de la Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais (Prévisions - Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais) et mis à jour quotidiennement, car les conditions peuvent changer rapidement. Les effets du vent et des vagues ne sont pas pris en compte dans ces prévisions et les niveaux d'eau pourraient fluctuer en raison de fortes rafales de vent.
Les résidents des zones sujettes aux inondations sont invités à suivre de près l’évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de rester à l’écart des cours d’eau où les débits sont élevés et où les berges pourraient être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et d'assurer une surveillance appropriée autour de tous les cours d'eau.
Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles et des Forêts dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.
Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et publiera des mises à jour sur l’état de la rivière sur son site Web tous les jours à www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
Pour consulter les avertissements d’inondation actuels en Ontario, visitez : www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.
La présente DÉCLARATION D'AVERTISSEMENT DE CRUE est en vigueur jusqu’au 23 mai 2023 à 17 h 00. Des mises à jour seront transmises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.
POUR PLUS D’INFORMATIONS :
Brian Stratton
RVCA Manager Engineering Services
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 poste 1141
Définitions :
- Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts, de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.
- Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Perspective de crue :préavis de crue possible basé sur des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.
- Veille de crue :possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.
- Avertissement de crue : crue immimente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et
municipalités spécifiques.
2022 RVCA Financial Statement
Flood Watch and Water Safety: Bobs and Christie Lakes Still High; Caution Advised Near All Large Water Bodies
(WCS – R11/2023)
May 9, 2023 – A FLOOD WATCH is being maintained for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. Furthermore, a WATER SAFETY statement is being maintained for the entire Rideau Valley Watershed.
The water levels on Bobs and Christie Lakes remain high and are above average for this time of year due to the recent significant rain event. The current forecast indicates little rain for the next 5 days which is favourable for water level decreases, however another large rainfall could cause water levels to increase again. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in these lakes. Operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
Water levels and flows in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed are generally above average for this time of year due to the recent significant rain event, but are declining.
The RVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all waterbodies and dam structures and remind children about the dangers of playing near open water. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED TO NOT USE THE RIDEAU RIVER FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES UNTIL WATER LEVELS RECEDE TO SAFER LEVELS.
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday May 23, 2023 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.
-end-
More Information:
Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions
"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."
RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:
- Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
- Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.
- Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.
- Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.
Water Conditions Statement: Flood Warning — Lower Ottawa River
May 2, 2023 — This FLOOD WARNING statement is an update to the Flood Warning issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on April 28th, 2023.
Water levels are expected to rise again within the Ottawa River Basin due to significant rainfall received over the past few days. Runoff from this rain event will bring additional water volumes to the Ottawa River at a time when levels are already near major flood thresholds.
Based on Ottawa River Regulating Committee forecasts, flood prone areas along the main stem of the Ottawa River from Arnprior to Hawkesbury are at risk. Water levels are currently expected to remain 45 cm to 70 cm below historical flood levels of 2019 on the main stem of the Ottawa River.
Affected locations include flood-prone areas at Chats Lake, Constance Bay area, Britannia / Lac Deschênes, Cumberland, City of Clarence-Rockland, Township of Alfred Plantagenet, and other vulnerable areas down to Carillion Dam. Potential water level increases forecasted by the Ottawa River Regulating Committee are provided below.
MVCA - Areas of Concern:
-
Water levels in the Constance Bay area are expected to rise about 20 cm above the current elevation* over the next week. The water levels are expected to exceed peak levels observed April 21, 2023, by about 20 cm.
RVCA - Areas of Concern:
-
Water levels in the Britannia area (Grandview Road and the Belltown Community) are projected to rise about 30 cm above the current elevation* over the next week. The water levels are expected to exceed peak levels observed April 21, 2023, by about 30 cm.
-
Water levels east of Cumberland Village (Boise Village, Morin Road, Leo Lane) are projected to rise about 35 cm above the current elevation* over the next week. The water levels are expected to exceed peak levels observed April 22, 2023, by about 60 cm.
SNC - Areas of Concern:
-
Water levels in the Rockland area are expected to rise about 30 cm above the current elevation* over the next week. The water levels are expected to exceed peak levels observed April 22, 2023, by about 60 cm.
MNRF - Areas of Concern:
-
Water levels in the Hawkesbury area are expected to rise about 30 cm above the
current elevation* over the next week. Water levels are expected to exceed peak levels observed April 22, 2023, by about 50 cm.
* Current elevation as of 8:00 a.m., May 2, 2023.
Peak river conditions remain dependent on the amount of rainfall received. Forecast levels over a four-day period are provided at the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board website (Forecasts - Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board) and updated daily as conditions could change quickly. Wind and wave effects are not included in this forecast. Water levels may fluctuate due to high wind gusts forecasted for Wednesday and Thursday.
Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.
The Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, and South Nation Conservation Authorities monitor water levels and weather forecasts with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.
The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit: www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.
This FLOOD WARNING STATEMENT is in effect until May 12, 2023 at 5:00 PM. Updates will be provided as conditions change.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Brian Stratton
RVCA Manager Engineering Services
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
Definitions:
- Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.
- Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions.
- Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
- Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
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Déclaration sur l’état de la rivière, mise à jour no 3 : Avertissement de crue: - Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais
2 mai 2023 —
2 mai 2023 — Cet AVERTISSEMENT DE CRUE est une mise à jour de l’avertissement de crue émis le 28 avril 2023 pour les secteurs situées le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d’Arnprior à Hawkesbury).
On s'attend à ce que les niveaux d'eau augmentent de nouveau dans le bassin de la rivière des Outaouais en raison des précipitations importantes reçues au cours des derniers jours. Le ruissellement de ces précipitations apportera des volumes d'eau supplémentaires à la rivière des Outaouais à un moment où les niveaux d’eau sont déjà proches des seuils d'inondation majeurs.
Selon les prévisions du Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais, les zones sujettes aux inondations le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais, d’Arnprior à Hawkesbury, sont à risque. On s’attend actuellement à ce que les niveaux d’eau demeurent de 45 cm à 70 cm sous lesniveaux d’inondation historiques de 2019 sur le tronçon principal de la rivière des Outaouais.
Les endroits touchés comprennent les secteurs sujets aux inondations du lac des Chats, de la région de la baie Constance, de Britannia / Lac Deschênes, de Cumberland, de la Cité de Clarence-Rockland, du canton d’Alfred et Plantagenet et à d’autres secteurs vulnérables jusqu’au barrage Carillion. Les augmentations potentielles des niveaux d’eau prévues par le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais sont indiquées ci-dessous.
Secteurs préoccupants – MVCA :
-
Les niveaux d’eau dans la région de la baie de Constance devraient augmenter d’environ 20 cm au-dessus du niveau actuel* au cours de la semaine prochaine. Les niveaux d’eau devraient dépasser les niveaux de pointe observés le 21 avril 2023 d’environ 20 cm.
Secteurs préoccupants - RVCA :
-
Les niveaux d’eau dans le secteur de Britannia (chemin Grandview et communauté de Belltown) devraient augmenter d’environ 30 cm au-dessus du niveau actuel* au cours de la prochaine semaine. Les niveaux d’eau devraient dépasser les niveaux de pointe observés le
21 avril 2023 d’environ 30 cm. -
Les niveaux d’eau à l’est du village de Cumberland (village de Boise, chemin Morin, ruelle Leo)devraient augmenter d’environ 35 cm au-dessus du niveau actuel* au cours de la prochaine semaine. Les niveaux d’eau devraient dépasser les niveaux de pointe observés le
22 avril 2023 d’environ 60 cm.
Secteurs préoccupants – CNS :
-
Les niveaux d’eau dans la région de Rockland devraient augmenter d’environ 30 cm au-dessus du niveau actuel* au cours de la prochaine semaine. Les niveaux d’eau devraient dépasser les niveaux de pointe observés le 22 avril 2023 d’environ 60 cm.
Secteurs préoccupants - MNRF :
-
Les niveaux d’eau dans la région de Hawkesbury devraient augmenter d’environ 30 cm
au-dessus du niveau actuel* au cours de la prochaine semaine. Les niveaux d’eau devraient dépasser les niveaux de pointe observés le 22 avril 2023 d’environ 50 cm.
* Niveau actuel à 8 h 00, le 2 mai 2023.
Les conditions de pointe de la rivière dépendent de la quantité de précipitations reçues. Les niveaux prévus sur une période de quatre jours sont indiqués sur le site Web de la Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais (Prévisions - Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais) et mis à jour quotidiennement, car les conditions pourraient changer rapidement. Les effets du vent et des vagues ne sont pas pris en compte dans ces prévisions. Les niveaux d’eau pourraient fluctuer en raison des fortes rafales de vent prévues pour mercredi et jeudi.
Les résidents des zones sujettes aux inondations sont invités à suivre de près l’évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de rester à l’écart des cours d’eau où les débits sont élevés et où les berges pourraient être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et d'assurer une surveillance appropriée autour de tous les cours d'eau.
Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles et des Forêts dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.
Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et publiera des mises à jour sur l’état de la rivière sur son site Web tous les jours à www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
Pour consulter les avertissements d’inondation actuels en Ontario, visitez : www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.
La présente DÉCLARATION D'AVERTISSEMENT DE CRUE est en vigueur jusqu’au 12 mai 2023 à 17 h 00. Des mises à jour seront transmises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.
POUR PLUS D’INFORMATIONS :
Brian Stratton
RVCA Manager Engineering Services
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 poste 1141
Définitions :
- Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts, de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.
- Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Perspective de crue :préavis de crue possible basé sur des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.
- Veille de crue :possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.
- Avertissement de crue : crue immimente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et
municipalités spécifiques.
UPDATE #2: Flood Warning — Lower Ottawa River | Mise à jour no 2 : Avertissement de crue – Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais
Water Conditions Statement: Flood Warning — Lower Ottawa River
April 28, 2023 — This FLOOD WARNING statement is an update to the Flood Warning issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on April 20th, 2023.
Water levels are expected to rise again within the Ottawa River Basin due to significant rainfall forecasted Saturday through Tuesday. Runoff from this rain event will bring additional water volumes to the Ottawa River at a time when levels are already near major flood thresholds.
The Ottawa River Regulating Committee is managing principal reservoirs to reduce river flows to downstream areas.
The Ottawa River Regulating Committee anticipates that water levels along the main stem of the Ottawa River will rise again next week, possibly exceeding major flood thresholds.
Rainfall runoff could affect multiple streets, lawns and houses in low-lying areas.
Water levels are currently expected to remain well below historical flood levels of 2019 on the main stem of the Ottawa River.
Affected locations include flood-prone areas at Chats Lake, Constance Bay area, Britannia / Lac Deschênes, Cumberland, City of Clarence-Rockland, Township of Alfred Plantagenet, and other vulnerable areas down to Montreal.
MVCA - Areas of Concern:
-
Water levels in the Constance Bay area are expected to rise early next week by about 0.3 m above the current elevation*.
RVCA - Areas of Concern:
-
Water levels in the Britannia area (Grandview Road and the Belltown Community) are expected to rise early next week by about 0.3 m above the current elevation*, which is about 0.1 m above the highest water level observed this year.
-
Water levels east of Cumberland Village (Boise Village, Morin Road, Leo Lane) are expected to rise early next week by about 0.45 m above the current elevation*, which is about 0.25 m above the highest water level observed this year.
SNC - Areas of Concern:
- Water levels in the Rockland area are expected to rise early next week by about 0.45 m above the current elevation*, which is about 0.25 m above the highest water level
observed this year.
MNRF - Areas of Concern:
- Water levels in the Hawkesbury area are expected to rise by about 0.4 m above the current elevation* early next week, which is about 0.20 m above the highest water level observed this year.
* Current elevation as of 10:00 a.m., Friday, April 28, 2023.
Peak river conditions remain dependent on snowmelt in the northern part of the basin and rainfall. There is uncertainty on the rainfall amounts and the areas that could be affected. It should be noted that water level forecasts do not account for wind and wave impacts.
Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.
The Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, and South Nation Conservation Authorities monitor water levels and weather forecasts with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.
The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit: www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.
This FLOOD WARNING STATEMENT is in effect until May 5, 2023 at 5:00 PM.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Brian Stratton
RVCA Manager Engineering Services
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
Definitions:
- Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.
- Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions.
- Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
- Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
-end-
Déclaration sur l’état de la rivière, mise à jour no 2 : Avertissement de crue: - Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais
28 avril 2023 —
Cette déclaration d’ AVERTISSEMENT DE CRUE est une mise à jour de l'avertissement de crue émise pour les secteurs situés le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais
(d’Arnprior à Hawkesbury) le 20 avril 2023.
On s’attend à ce que les niveaux d'eau continuent d’augmenter dans le bassin de la rivière des Outaouais en raison de la fonte des précipitations importantes qui devraient commencer samedi et se poursuivre jusqu'à mardi. Le ruissellement de cet épisode de pluie apportera des volumes d'eau supplémentaires à la rivière des Outaouais à un moment où les niveaux sont déjà proches des seuils d'inondation majeure.
Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais gère les réservoirs principaux afin de réduire le débit de la rivière vers les zones en aval.
Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais prévoit que les niveaux d'eau le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais augmenteront à nouveau la semaine prochaine, dépassant peut-être les seuils d'inondation majeure.
Le ruissellement de cet événement pluvieux pourrait affecter plusieurs rues, pelouses et maisons dans les zones basses.
Les niveaux d'eau devraient actuellement rester bien en deçà des niveaux d'inondation historiques de 2019 sur le cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais.
Les endroits touchés comprennent les secteurs sujets aux inondations du lac des Chats, de la région de la baie Constance, de Britannia / Lac Deschênes, de Cumberland, de la Cité
de Clarence-Rockland, du canton d’Alfred et Plantagenet et d’autres zones vulnérables jusqu’à Montreal.
Secteurs préoccupants – MVCA :
-
Les niveaux d’eau dans la région de la baie de Constance devraient augmenter au début de la semaine prochaine d’environ 0,3 m au-dessus du niveau actuel*.
Secteurs préoccupants - RVCA :
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Les niveaux d’eau dans le secteur de Britannia (chemin Grandview et communauté de Belltown) devraient augmenter au début de la semaine prochaine d’environ 0,3 m au-dessus du niveau actuel*, qui est d'environ 0,1 m au-dessus du niveau d'eau le plus élevé observé cette année.
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Les niveaux d’eau à l’est du village de Cumberland (village de Boise, chemin Morin, ruelle Leo) devraient augmenter au début de la semaine prochaine d’environ 0,45 m au-dessus du niveau actuel*, qui est d'environ 0,25 m au-dessus du niveau d'eau le plus élevé observé cette année.
Secteurs préoccupants – CNS :
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Les niveaux d’eau dans la région de Rockland devraient augmenter au début de la semaine prochaine d’environ 0,45 m au-dessus du niveau actuel*, qui est d'environ 0,25 m au-dessus du niveau d'eau le plus élevé observé cette année.
Secteurs préoccupants - MNRF :
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Les niveaux d’eau dans la région de Hawkesbury devraient augmenter au début de la semaine prochaine d’environ 0,4 m au-dessus du niveau actuel*, qui est d'environ 0,2 m au-dessus du niveau d'eau le plus élevé observé cette année.
* Niveau actuel à 10 h, le vendredi 28 avril 2023.
Les conditions de pointe de la rivière dépendent de la fonte des neiges dans la partie nord du bassin et des quantités de précipitations. Il existe une incertitude sur les quantités de précipitations et les zones qui pourraient être affectées. Il convient de noter que les prévisions du niveau d'eau ne tiennent pas compte des impacts du vent et des vagues.
Les résidents des zones sujettes aux inondations sont encouragés à suivre de près l'évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de rester à l'écart des cours d'eau où les débits sont élevés et où les berges pourraient être instables. Les parents sont encouragés à expliquer les dangers aux enfants et à assurer une surveillance appropriée autour de tous les plans d'eau.
Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles et des Forêts dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.
Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et publiera des mises à jour sur l’état de la rivière sur son site Web tous les jours à www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.
Pour consulter les avertissements d’inondation actuels en Ontario, visitez : www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.
La présente DÉCLARATION D'AVERTISSEMENT DE CRUE est en vigueur jusqu’au 5 mai 2023 à 17 h 00.
POUR PLUS D’INFORMATIONS :
Brian Stratton
RVCA Manager Engineering Services
613-692-3571 or 1-800-267-3504 poste 1141
Définitions :
- Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts, de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.
- Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Perspective de crue :préavis de crue possible basé sur des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.
- Veille de crue :possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.
- Avertissement de crue : crue immimente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et
municipalités spécifiques.
Flood Watch and Water Safety: Significant Rain Expected to Increase Water Levels Throughout the Rideau Valley
(WCS - 10/2023)
April 28, 2023 – The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is maintaining a FLOOD WATCH for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake and issuing a WATER SAFETY for the entire Rideau Valley Watershed.
Environment Canada is forecasting significant rainfall starting on Saturday April 29, and continuing through next Tuesday. This forecasted rainfall is expected to cause all water levels and flows to increase throughout the Rideau Valley Watershed. Except as noted below, most water levels and flows are currently at seasonal levels, so it is expected that this rain event will not cause any significant flooding, but it could cause localized flooding in small watercourses, urban areas and ditches.
The water levels on Bobs and Christie Lakes are near lake capacity and water levels are expected to increase with this rain event and may approach flood levels. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in these lakes, and operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
The RVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all waterbodies and remind children about the dangers of playing near open water. Residents are reminded to make sure their sump pumps are in good working condition and to help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear of obstructions.
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.
-end-
More Information:
Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions
"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."
RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:
- Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
- Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.
- Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.
- Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.
Flood data collection begins on four Rideau Valley lakes
RIDEAU VALLEY WATERSHED, April 28, 2023 – Work is underway to collect flood hazard data on four upper watershed lakes.
Beginning this May, the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) will be collecting important data that will inform future flood mapping projects on Lower Rideau, Big Rideau, Bobs and Otty Lakes, in co-operation with local municipalities. RVCA has contracted Water’s Edge Environmental Solutions Team to be on the lakes throughout the Spring and Fall of 2023.
This data collection is the first phase of a larger initiative to complete natural hazard mapping around the lakes. Water’s Edge will survey topography surrounding the lakes to verify recent LiDAR analyses, lake bathymetry, bridges, culverts, and nearby channel cross-sections while also documenting and assessing land uses, precipitation, historic high water marks, and water levels and flows. They will also document water control structures, their operating policies and their operational history. The data will be analysed in future projects to develop robust hazard mapping reports.
The RVCA received $160,000 in funding from the federal Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program (FHIMP) to cover up to half of the project’s total cost. The funding program was announced in 2022 to increase the number and quality of publicly accessible flood maps across Canada as extreme weather drives more severe flooding in communities across the country.
Mapping the flood hazards in these lakes will reduce impacts on people and property by promoting responsible land use planning, directing development away from flood prone areas and enhancing the RVCA’s flood forecasting and warning program.
While the surveyors will likely not need to access private property to carry out their work, they will be visibly active on the lakes during shoulder seasons throughout 2023. Waterfront residents can expect to see their boat moving slowly along shorelines and sometimes weaving back and forth to collect lakebed data. They may also be spotted on roadsides as they document bridges, culverts and other man-made structures.
Conservation Authorities are responsible for mapping natural hazards including flooding under the Conservation Authorities Act. While many urban parts of the Rideau Valley watershed have been mapped over the past 60 years, this is the first time these lakes are being formally mapped for flood hazards.
The hazard maps will also help RVCA comment on municipal planning files with respect to their impact on flooding, erosion and other natural hazards, and will help direct development away from floodplains and hazard areas in our own permitting program for work near watercourses and wetlands.
To learn more about our hazard mapping program visit https://www.rvca.ca/watershed-monitoring-reporting/reporting/flood-risk-mapping-reports.
-30-
(WCS - 09/2023)
April 25, 2023 – The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is terminating the FLOOD WARNING that was previously in effect and issuing a FLOOD WATCH for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
The water levels on Bobs and Christie Lakes continue to decline but these lakes are near capacity and water levels may still increase with any significant rain. The current forecast indicates between 25 mm and 45 mm of rain could fall between Saturday and next Tuesday. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in these lakes, and operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
Water levels are now near seasonal in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed.
Everyone should remain cautious around lakes and streams as water levels continue to fluctuate. Children should be reminded of the hazards and adequately supervised around all watercourses.
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday, May 9, 2023 and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.
-end-
More Information:
Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions
"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."
RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:
- Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
- Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.
- Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.
- Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.
Watershed Conditions
Current Watershed Conditions
STAY
INFORMED
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