Otonabee Region Watershed Downgrades to Level 1 Low Water Condition

The Otonabee Region Water Response Team has downgraded the Otonabee Conservation watershed to a Level 1 Low Water Condition, following its Level 2 status since August.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Above-average rainfall in September and October has eased the effects of this summer’s hot, dry weather. Otonabee Conservation states they will continue monitoring conditions and may return to normal status if precipitation remains sufficient in the coming weeks.

The Otonabee Region Water Response Team includes representatives from local municipalities, water managers, tourism and agriculture, provincial and federal agencies, First Nations and Otonabee Conservation.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Otonabee Conservation Continues to Recommend Residents to Reduce Water Usage

Since Thursday, Otonabee Conservation recommends a 20 per cent voluntary reduction in water consumption to help ease pressure on local water supplies.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Otonobee Conservation declared a Level 2 Low Water Condition on Thursday and remains in effect for the region. 

During these dry conditions, residents and visitors are reminded that smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in all City of Peterborough parks, sports fields, playgrounds, splashpads, wading pools and beaches (except in designated smoking areas).

These restrictions help reduce the risk of fire and support public health. It is enforced under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and the Peterborough Smoking Bylaw.

Due to arid conditions, a barbecue ban is in effect at Riverview Park and Zoo. Barbecues are not permitted anywhere on the grounds, including picnic shelters. 

Open-air burning is not permitted in the City of Peterborough. This includes any outdoor fires such as bonfires, campfires and the burning of yard waste. According to the City, these activities pose a risk to public safety and can have serious consequences, especially in densely populated areas. 

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) approved fire bowls, fire-pit tables, and barbeques that burn propane or natural gas are examples of approved appliances that may be used. Chimineas and other wood-burning devices are not approved appliances for open-air fires. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Equipment Upgrades Lead to Expected Temporary Increase in Water Levels Along the Otonabee and Trent Rivers

Otonabee Conservation says there will be temporary increases in water levels and flow may occur along the Otonabee and Trent Rivers after equipment upgrades from Sept. 2 to 22.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Ontario Power Generation is conducting the equipment upgrades at the Auburn Generating Station.

Otonabee Conservation urges residents and river users to exercise caution, as elevated water conditions may result in strong undercurrents and rapidly changing conditions. Ensure that all boats, floating docks and related equipment are properly secured.

Water levels and flow are expected to return to normal following the completion of the upgrades.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough Residents Urged to Reduce Water Consumption Amid Dry Conditions

The City of Peterborough is urging residents to reduce water consumption due to low water conditions throughout the area.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This follows after Otonabee Conservation declared a Level 1 drought due to dry conditions across the region following significantly reduced rainfall and extended periods of heat through June and July.

A decline in rainfall and an increase in high-temperature days have resulted in low streamflow, putting pressure on water supplies throughout the region.

During Level 1 drought conditions, Otonabee Conservation recommends a 10 per cent voluntary reduction in water consumption to help ease pressure on local water supplies. Residents and businesses are asked to limit non-essential water use, including lawn watering, car washing, pool filling and other outdoor water activities.

During these dry conditions, residents and visitors are reminded that smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in all City of Peterborough parks, sports fields, playgrounds, splashpads, wading pools and beaches, except in designated smoking areas.

These restrictions help reduce the risk of fire and support public health. This is enforced under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and the Peterborough Smoking Bylaw.

Open-air burning is not permitted in the City of Peterborough. This includes any outdoor fires such as bonfires, campfires and the burning of yard waste. These activities pose a risk to public safety and can have serious consequences, especially in densely populated areas.   

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) approved fire bowls, fire-pit tables and barbeques that burn propane or natural gas are examples of approved appliances that may be used. Chimineas and other wood-burning devices are not approved appliances for open-air fires.  

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Otonabee Conservation Releases 2024 Annual Report

Otonabee Conservation released its 2024 Annual Report to the Watershed Community at its board meeting on April 17, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

The report is an interactive, web-based story map featuring maps and videos highlighting last year’s accomplishments.

“This report highlights the power of collaboration—celebrating the shared accomplishments of our eight member municipalities, dedicated community organizations, staff, and the Board of Directors as we work together to protect and enhance the Otonabee Region watershed,” said Michael Metcalf, Otonabee Conservation Board of Directors Chair.

Highlights from 2024 include:

• 910 trees and shrubs by 180 volunteers at 3 locations in the watershed

• 427 daily canoe and kayak rentals in 2024 - 1,961 hours of paddling

• 31,505 campers were hosted in our three campgrounds in 2024 and hosted 22,815 day-use visitors at Warsaw Caves Conservation Areas

• 16 Flood Forecasting and Warning watershed safety messages were issued but did not issue any low water messages

• 850 hours were spent engineering new models and finalizing new floodplain mapping in 2024, including for Byersville Creek and Jackson Creek

• Two anniversaries for our Conservation Areas were celebrated last year, 30 years for Hardold Town and 60 Years for Warsaw Caves

“Otonabee Conservation’s 2024 Annual Report highlights the year’s accomplishments as we continue to address the impacts of climate change and foster collaboration to build a safer, more resilient watershed for everyone,” said Janette Loveys Smith, Otonabee Conservation CAO.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Otonabee Conservation Launches 2025 Seedling Program Encouraging Property Enhancement With Trees For Landowners

Otonabee Conservation has launched its 2025 Seedling Program, encouraging landowners in the Otonabee Region Watershed to plant and grow trees to enhance their property and mitigate climate change.

MEREDITH CARTER, MANAGER OF WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS AT OTONABEE CONSERVATION, HOLDS A BARE ROOT TREE THAT WAS ONE OF 4,500 TREES PLANTED AT A WATERSHED RESIDENT’S PROPERTY IN OTONABEE SOUTH MONAGHAN TOWNSHIP in the fall of 2020. PHOTO COURTESY of OTONABEE CONSERVATION

“Trees play an important role in maintaining a healthy and resilient natural environment; planting more trees will help provide habitat and mitigate the impacts of climate change,” said Meredith Carter, Otonabee Conservation Watershed Management Program manager. “Last year, nearly 100 landowners in our watershed purchased and planted 9200 trees and shrubs through our Tree Seedling Sales Program. This will translate to approximately the production 106,000 kg of oxygen.

The Conservation offers various coniferous and deciduous trees and wildlife shrubs, including White Pine, Eastern White Cedar, Red Oak, Sugar Maple, Highbush Cranberry, Buttonbush, Serviceberry and Tamarack. The minimum order is 25 seedlings per species.

“Trees and forests also protect water quality in our rivers and streams,” said Carter, “They provide essential habitat for birds and wildlife, contribute to environmental and human health and mitigate climate change impacts in our watershed.”

Pickups are scheduled for this spring with an order deadline of Feb. 24 at 4 p.m.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Flood Watch Issued For Municipalities Along Trent-Severn Waterway Due to Frazil Ice

Otonabee Conservation has issued a flood watch for municipalities along the Trent-Severn Waterway within its jurisdiction due to the potential for flooding because of frazil ice.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Frazil ice is a kind of slush ice that occurs when temperatures drop below freezing, but solid ice cannot form because of the fast, turbulent water. Where frazil ice accumulates, it is likely to restrict water flow, which may cause increased water levels and possibly flooding. 

Otonabee Conservation advises residents of flood-prone areas to be prepared for potential flooding and stay aware of local conditions and alerts over the next week.

Water levels can be monitored online at: 

1)      Trent-Severn Waterway’s Water Management InfoNet.

2)      Water Survey of Canada Real-Time Hydrometric Data 

3)      Otonabee Region Conservation Authority website 

The Flood Watch message will expire on Monday unless updated earlier.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Otonabee Conservation Issues Watershed Conditions Statement

Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety has been issued for all watercourses within the jurisdiction of Otonabee Conservation, with the exception of the Trent-Severn Waterway.

otonabee conservation logo

With widespread rainfall over the next few days, Otonabee Conservation says high-than-normal water flows and levels that could be dangerous are expected, although flooding is not a concern.

Total local rainfall amounts of 30 to 45 mm are predicted over the next 24 hours with showers becoming heavier at times with the risk of thunderstorms this evening and overnight and into the day on Wednesday.

While flooding is not expected, Otonabee Conservation says the forecasted rainfall will create ponding in low lying areas, roadways and higher-than-normal water levels and flows on all local watercourses.

The alert is in-effect until Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m., unless updated earlier.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Siemens Canada Employees Plant 100 Trees and Shrubs at Riverview Park & Zoo

Employees from Siemens Canada in Peterborough planted 100 native trees and shrubs at the Riverview Park & Zoo on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

The planting was in partnership with Tree Canada and Otonabee Conservation.

A variety of native trees and shrubs, including buttonbush, speckled alder, tamarack, Saskatoon serviceberry, and silky dogwood will increase species diversity and enhance habitat for local wildlife in the area adjacent to the Otonabee River on the Riverview Park and Zoo grounds according to Otonabee Conservation. 

“Siemens employees have planted a wide selection of trees in the Peterborough-area in the past ten years, and more than 17,800 trees in total across Canada,” said Ian Almond, Siemens plant manager. “Beautifying our community and contributing to a more sustainable future is a responsibility and an honour. We are grateful to our employees and our local partners who help make it happen.”

“We are thrilled to continue working with Tree Canada and Siemens to make habitat enhancements in our watershed,” said Janette Loveys Smith, Otonabee Conservation CAO/secretary-treasurer. “We value our ongoing partnership and our shared commitment of supporting community engagement and the environment.”

“Riverview Park and Zoo, welcomes over 300,000 visitors a year with no admission fee for outdoor education and recreation. We are home to many native species of wildlife that share our natural spaces on the shores of the Otonabee River,”  said Cathy Mitchell, Riverview manager and curator. “This project, with support from our valued partners, will help achieve the goal to further naturalize the shoreline and create more bird and pollinator friendly spaces.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Otonabee Conservation AGM Introduces Chair, Vice Chair and Announces Environmental Excellence Awards

During Otonabee Conservation's first Annual General Meeting since the pandemic, a new chair and vice-chair were appointed and Environmental Excellence Awards were awarded.

Otonabee Conservation CAO, Janette Loveys Smith (left), award winner, Cathy Dueck (middle) and Board of Directors Chair, Michael Metcalf (right). Photo courtest of Otonoabee Conservation.

Deputy Mayor Michael Metcalf from the Municipality of Trent Hills steps up from his role as Vice Chair into the role of Chair; stepping down after filling the role since 2022, is Deputy Mayor from the Township of Cavan-Monaghan Ryan Huntley. For 2024, the role of Vice Chair will be held by Councillor Kevin Duguay from the City of Peterborough.

“We have accomplished a lot together under Ryan Huntley’s leadership and guidance. He has inspired us to continue our good work with Otonabee Conservation,” said Metcalf, “I look forward to working together with the board and staff in 2024 to address issues and challenges across the Otonabee Region watershed.”

“A sincere thank you to Deputy Mayor Huntley, who has been a great leader for the board of directors over the last two years,” said Janette Loveys Smith, Otonabee Conservation CAO. “I have enjoyed working with him and have appreciated his guidance. I am pleased to see Deputy Mayor Metcalf and Councillor Duguay step up in the Chair and Vice Chair roles and look forward to continuing to work with our eight member municipalities.”

Each year at the AGM, Otonabee Conservation honours four watershed champions with the annual Environmental Excellence Awards. These awards recognize the outstanding people and groups within our watershed who have demonstrated the advancement of watershed health through projects on the landscape and actions that contribute to a healthier environment for everyone.

This year’s recipients of the Environmental Excellence Awards are:

• Individual Conservationist Award: Awarded to Cathey Dueck
  Recognizing outstanding people who have undertaken projects, demonstrated leadership, and inspired others to create a healthier watershed.

• Environmental Stewardship Award: Awarded to Peterborough Humane Society
  Recognizing community or organized groups that have successfully undertaken projects that contribute to a healthier watershed.

• Conservation Partnership Award: Awarded to Brad Appleby
  Recognizing a municipal partner or agency who has made a significant, positive contribution to furthering the objectives of Otonabee Conservation in one or more areas of the Authority's operations.

• Business Award: Awarded to nefAB Canada Recognizing a business that has made a significant contribution to projects or programs at Otonabee Conservation, advancing our vision of a healthy watershed.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.