Monthly Archive

Flood Warning Termination — Ottawa River: Arnprior to Hawkesbury

MAY 31, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is TERMINATING the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

A Watershed Conditions – High Water Safety message is in effect as all areas are still well above normal for this time of year and conditions are expected to remain that was for at least the next two weeks.

The most recent analysis from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels along the lower Ottawa River from Chats Lake to the Grenville/Hawkesbury area are declining steadily and that trend is expected to continue.

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.

The Watershed Conditions – High Water Safety message will remain in effect until Friday, June 7, 2019 at 5:00 PM. No further updates will be issued unless forecasted levels or conditions change.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the water levels and weather forecasts with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program.

The Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program”

-end-

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Warning Update #14 - OTTAWA RIVER – ARNPRIOR TO HAWKESBURY

MAY 28, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

Water conditions along the lower Ottawa River from Arnprior to Gatineau have been slowly declining but will remain well above normal conditions for this time of year. Levels from Gatineau to Hawkesbury are expected to remain stable and should resume declining on Wednesday. No additional increase in water levels is expected for this area.

Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for now. Updates to all projections will be provided as they become available.

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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program”

-end-

"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 area watercourses.

Water Safety - Bobs and Christie Lakes Slowly Declining in Rideau Valley Watershed

May 28, 2019 – The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) is terminating the Flood Watch that was previously in effect and issuing a High Water Safety message for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.

The water levels on Bobs and Christie Lakes continue to decline slowly but both lakes are still above average for this time of year. This water levels are expected to gradually drop down to seasonal levels with no significant rainfall and somewhat seasonal temperatures in the forecast for the next week. 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 continue to be at seasonal values in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed.

Everyone needs to be cautious around lakes and streams with the fluctuating water levels. Children need to be educated about the hazards and kept away from all watercourses.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday June 4, 2019 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

-end-

"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 area watercourses.

Blog launch: The River Reed to cover life in the Rideau Valley watershed

 May 23, 2019 – Looking for ways to green your backyard? Need inspiration from your most dedicated neighbours? Want the scoop on river-friendly development trends? The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority invites you to subscribe to its new blog, The River Reed.

From green waterfront living to cute critters to special features, we’ve got life in the Rideau Valley watershed covered!

The blog will focus on the people, projects and policies making our watershed a healthy, liveable place for all – people and wildlife included.

Subscribers will get tips for green waterfront living, learn about landowners making a difference, and access information about the best designs and approaches to make your development a welcoming and watershed-friendly place to thrive.

Our latest post, “Waterfront Living: Which Side Are You On?” features an interactive graphic showcasing the easy changes that can be made to make your waterfront property a haven for people and animals.

Other recent posts cover the recent floods, high school tree planters and how you can help pollinators thrive this season.

Follow along at www.rvca.ca/blog as we take you into the depths of watershed life! Click on the envelope to subscribe.

-end-

Flood Warning Update #13 - OTTAWA RIVER – ARNPRIOR TO HAWKESBURY

MAY 22, 2019 - Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The most recent analysis from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels along the lower Ottawa River from Chats Lake to the Grenville/ Hawkesbury area will continue to decline over the coming weeks, albeit slowly.

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk as spring runoff continues along the upper Ottawa River. Levels are expected to remain high for the next few weeks. Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation that is received. Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for now. Updates to all projections will be provided as they become available.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program”

-end-

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Watch Update #4 - Bobs and Christie Lakes Still High in Rideau Valley Watershed

May 21, 2019 – A FLOOD WATCH is being maintained for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.

The water levels on Bobs and Christie Lakes continues to decline slowly, but the recent wet/cool weather has kept both lakes above average for this time of year. The current forecast indicates 10 mm of rain could fall this coming the weekend. This rainfall will likely slow down the rate of water level decline on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. 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 are now near seasonal in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed.

Everyone needs to be cautious around lakes and streams with the fluctuating water levels. Children need to be educated about the hazards and kept away from all watercourses.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday May 28, 2019 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

-end-

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Warning — Update #12: Ottawa River – Arnprior to Hawkesbury

May 17, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The most recent analysis from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels along the lower Ottawa River from Chats Lake to the Grenville/ Hawkesbury area are slowly declining but remain high.

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk as spring runoff continues along the upper Ottawa River. Levels are expected to remain high for the next few weeks. Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation that is received. Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for now. Updates to all projections will be provided as they become available.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.”

- end -

"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 area watercourses.

We can still plant trees – we just need your help

May 16, 2019 – The cancellation of the provincial 50 Million Trees program has generated a lot of conversation – and with good reason. As Ontario residents mop up from record flooding, and as climate change promises more intense weather to come, we need to be adding tree programs, not chopping them.

Trees are a vital part of a healthy environment: they clean our air, they create habitat, they capture carbon and they reduce runoff and erosion. They also help us fight floods like the one Ottawa saw this spring.

At the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), we’ve relied on the 50 Million Trees Program since 2007 to help us plant +200,000 seedlings every spring. Without it, we may find ourselves planting 20,000 trees instead of 200,000 – unless our generous community, corporate and individual supporters can help.

Under the program, landowners currently pay as low as $0.15 per tree, or $120 per acre, to reforest their retired farm fields and marginal lands. But without the provincial funding, tree planting will becoming unaffordable for many landowners and that will drastically reduce the number of trees being planted in the Rideau Valley watershed.

It will also mean local job losses. Our seedlings are grown at Ferguson Forestry Centre in Kemptville, which will face layoffs and financial losses because of the program cuts.

But all is not lost. We know there is an appetite in this community to work together to fight floods, combat climate change and make our community liveable now and in the future.

Donations, corporate sponsorships and community partnerships can save this cost-effective and successful tree planting program and continue growing a living legacy right here in our backyards.

And if we can do that, everybody wins.

To support the program, visit canadahelps.org or contact Diane Downey, executive director of the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation, a registered charity which supports the RVCA’s conservation and watershed management goals. She can be reached at or 613-692-3571 ext. 1126.

-end-

Opinion: Flood prevention cheaper than clean-up

May 14, 2019 – As homeowners and municipalities look to clean up after another record flood on the Ottawa River, the need to prevent such damage from happening again and again is clear.

We don’t yet know how much the 2019 flood will cost, but we know it will be much more than prevention. Hundreds of homes were damaged, millions of sandbags were filled, residents were evacuated, public infrastructure was compromised, and military and government staff logged significant overtime. And don’t forget the incalculable loss of photo albums and family keepsakes floating in soggy basements, and the exhaustion of homeowners and volunteers fighting the rising water.

But it could have been worse. Without current regulations, more homes and businesses would have been built in the floodplain, meaning more buildings damaged and more people affected.

The good news is, prevention is possible and infinitely cheaper than recovery – all we have to do is invest in it.

Ottawa’s conservation authorities are a key part of preventing flood damage, as they’re responsible for mapping flood-prone areas, monitoring flood conditions, giving municipalities and residents advance warning, keeping infrastructure like berms, dikes and dams in good working order, and prohibiting new development in flood zones. They also require homeowners in the floodplain to floodproof their homes and septic systems when they rebuild, to prevent future damage.

They do all this on a pretty tight budget (even tighter now due to recent provincial cuts), with the support of their partner municipalities.

Conservation authorities also prevent floods by planting hundreds of thousands of trees each year and protecting critical wetlands to build natural flood resilience right into our communities. Forests and wetlands act like sponges, catching and storing runoff so it percolates slowly into waterways. Without forests and wetlands, rain and snowmelt would have nowhere to go but directly into rivers and lakes, swelling them faster and higher.

Flooding is a natural function, and it will happen more often as extreme weather intensifies. And when today’s flood waters recede and the memories of sandbag walls begin to fade, conservation authorities will need continued public and political support when we are directing development away from floodplains, requiring existing structures to be floodproofed and taking steps to protect forests and wetlands.

We need financial support from all levels of government to continue updating floodplain mapping, operating and maintaining water control structures and monitoring flood conditions. It’s also time for the three levels of government to have serious conversations about buy-out and relocation programs for homeowners in the path of floods.

Cancelling the provincial 50 Million Trees program, reducing conservation authority funding and any weakening of regulations aimed at protecting wetlands or floodplains will only lead to more flooding and millions or billions in damages down the road.

Taxpayers foot the bill when major floods damage communities. Supporting the work of conservation authorities and municipalities to protect people and property from flooding in the first place is much better bang for our buck.

By Sommer Casgrain-Robertson, General Manager, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority

Flood Warning — Update #11: Ottawa River – Arnprior to Hawkesbury

May 14, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The most recent analysis from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels along the lower Ottawa River from Chats Lake to the Grenville/ Hawkebury area have stabilized and will slowly recede in the coming weeks.

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk as snowmelt continues along the upper Ottawa River. Levels are expected to remain high for the next two to three weeks. Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation that is received. Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for now. Updates to all projections will be provided as they become available.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Friday, May 17, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.”

- end -

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Watch Update #3: Bobs and Christie Lakes Still High in Rideau Valley Watershed

May 13, 2019 —A FLOOD WATCH is being maintained for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.

The water levels on both lakes continue to decline slowly and remain above average for this time of year.  The current water level on Bobs Lake is above the ‘Full Supply’ threshold at which flood damage can occur.  The current water level on Christie Lake is such that some flood damage can also occur. The current forecast indicates up to 30 mm of rain could fall between today and Wednesday. This rainfall will likely increase water levels again on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. 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 are now near seasonal in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed.

Everyone needs to be cautious around lakes and streams with the fluctuating water levels. Children need to be educated about the hazards and kept away from all watercourses.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday May 21, 2019 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

-end-

More Information:
Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
 or cell 613-799-9423

Media Enquiries:
Diane Downey, RVCA Director of Communications and Outreach
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-3571, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1126
 or cell 613-698-9453

"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 area watercourses.

Seeking volunteer 'scientists' to monitor Ottawa’s streams

May 13, 2019 — Do you love being outside, getting your hands dirty and doing some good for the planet? Are you interested in science or biology, but want to skip the degree? We’ve got just the job for you.

The RVCA’s City Stream Watch program needs volunteer ‘citizen scientists’ to help monitor, protect and clean up the city of Ottawa’s many urban and rural streams. From invasive species removal to assisting with aquatic wildlife surveys, citizen scientists are the backbone of the program that monitors the health of urban and rural tributaries flowing into the Rideau and Ottawa rivers.

This is the best time to get involved, since a volunteer training session will be held May 25 to welcome new recruits and introduce them to the basics of stream sampling and environmental data collection. 

Long-time volunteer Larry Hum encouraged residents to “give it a whirl” – especially if they’ve got an interest in biology or the environment.

“It’s an opportunity to work in bioscience without going into the heavy, heavy science,” he said.

Acting program co-ordinator Rosario Castanon-Escobar said it’s volunteers like Mr. Hum that make this program such a resounding success, year after year.

“The result of our work together is that our streams continue to be valued, respected and cared for to ensure these streams remain a point of pride within our communities,” said Castanon-Escobar.

This year’s volunteer training session is scheduled for Saturday, May 25 from 10 a.m. to noon along the shores of Sawmill Creek near Billings Bridge. All necessary equipment is provided and there is no cost to volunteers. Interested participants must pre-register for the event by contacting Castanon-Escobar at .

The 2019 program will collect data on Cranberry Creek in Kars, Hunt Club Creek in Hunt Club, Ramsey Creek in Gloucester/Mer Bleue and Borthwick Creek in Gloucester/Mer Bleue. Sampling activities will focus on assessing the habitat, water and shoreline conditions of the streams. The team will also organize several cleanups, shoreline planting events and invasive species removals throughout the season.

In the 17 years since its inception, City Stream Watch has enlisted the help of more than 3,100 volunteers, contributing more than 15,000 hours toward conservation projects and monitoring. All are welcome to participate. Results from our 2018 efforts are available online at www.rvca.ca.

The program is a community-based partnership, which includes the City of Ottawa, the Canadian Forces Fish & Game Club, the Ottawa Flyfishers Society, the Rideau Roundtable, the Ottawa Stewardship Council, National Capital Commission and Rideau Valley Conservation Authority.

For more information about the program, including the reports of streams previously studied, please visit www.rvca.ca/volunteer/city-stream-watch.

-end-

Flood Warning — Update #10: Ottawa River – Arnprior to Hawkesbury

May 10, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The most recent analysis from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels along the Ottawa River from Mattawa to Montreal are increasing due to recent precipitation and increased flow from the upper part of the watershed.  Water levels are not expected to reach the levels observed last week over the forecasted period.

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk as snowmelt continues along the upper Ottawa River. Levels are expected to remain high for the next two to three weeks. Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation that is received. Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for now. Updates to all projections will be provided as they become available.

MVCA areas of concern: 

Water levels in the Constance Bay area are expected to increase over the next 24 to 48 hours but are expected to be 5 to 10 cm lower than last week’s peak elevations.

RVCA areas of concern:

Water levels in the Britannia area (Grandview Road, Britannia Village, and the Belltown Community) are expected to increase over the next 24 to 48 hours but are expected to be 5 to 10 cm lower than last week’s peak elevations.

Water levels east of Cumberland Village (Boise Village, Morin Road, Leo Lane) are expected to increase over the next 24 to 48 hours but are not expected to exceed the peak levels observed last week.

SNC areas of concern:

Water level in Clarence-Rockland and Alfred-Plantagenet have risen 0.04m in the last 48 hours. Levels are expected to increase over the next 24 to 48 hours but are not expected to exceed the peak levels observed last week.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.”

- end -

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Warning -- Update #9 — Ottawa River — Arnprior to Hawkesbury

May 7, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The current weather forecast indicates that significant rainfall amounts are possible from Thursday morning into Friday as a large low-pressure system moves into the area.

The most recent analysis from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels along the Ottawa River from Chats Lake down to Lac Deschenes are stable and may increase as a result of the forecasted rainfall but should not exceed the initial peaks observed last week. From Pointe Gatineau down to the Grenville/Hawkesbury area water levels are still decreasing but may level off as a result of the forecasted rainfall.

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk as snowmelt continues along the upper Ottawa River. Levels are expected to remain high for the next two to three weeks. Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation that is received. Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for now. Updates to all projections will be provided as they become available.

MVCA areas of concern: 

Water levels in the Constance Bay area are stable and are expected to remain that way over the next 48 hours.  The forecasted rainfall on Thursday and Friday could cause levels to increase again.

RVCA areas of concern:

Water levels in the Britannia area (Grandview Road, Britannia Village, and the Belltown Community) are stable and are expected to remain that way over the next 48 hours. The forecasted rainfall on Thursday and Friday could cause levels to increase again.

Water levels east of Cumberland Village (Boise Village, Morin Road, Leo Lane) are still decreasing but may level off due to the forecasted rainfall on Thursday and Friday.

SNC areas of concern:

Water levels in Clarence-Rockland and Alfred-Plantagenet are still decreasing but may level off due to the forecasted rainfall on Thursday and Friday.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Friday, May 10, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program”

- end -

"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 area watercourses.

Planting for the future: Nepean students branch out from climate protest

May 7, 2019 – As thousands of Canadian students walked out of class to protest climate policies on May 3, a group of Nepean High School students were taking their protest back to basics.

Shovels in hand, the 14-person crew braved wet weather to plant 500 trees at MacSkimming Outdoor Education Centre in Cumberland. Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) provided the seedlings and taught the students how and where to plant them.

“I like that we’re taking real action, we’re out here actually planting trees,” said Emily Drummond, a Grade 9 environment club member. The club had planned to join the #FridaysForFuture climate strike at Parliament Hill, but decided they could have a more immediate impact reforesting an abandoned field.

Most of the students were in Grade 11 or 12 and part of the school’s environmental Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program. They take courses in habitat ecology, resource management and environmental science as part of their core curriculum. Most said they would pursue careers in an environmental field.

SHSM director and environment club leader Chris Drummond said he has worked with the RVCA before, planting endangered butternut seedlings in another part of the outdoor education centre and installing several turtle habitat sites.

The trees were paid for by the RVCA’s charitable arm, the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation.

The RVCA manages the Rideau River watershed. It monitors flood risks and other hazards, regulates development around waterways and supports stewardship activities like tree planting and shoreline naturalization to make the watershed more resilient. It also maintains 11 conservation areas and 42 kilometres of public trails.

You can support the RVCA’s work through a charitable donation to the foundation (www.rvcf.ca), purchasing a tree for a special occasion or donating private land for preservation. 

-end-

Skip the bouquet! Spring for a tree this Mother's Day

May 7, 2019 – Your mother gave you the gift of life, and now you can return the favour.

Thanks to the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation’s special occasions tree planting program, you can skip the grocery store bouquet and plant an environmental legacy in your mom’s honour, instead.

The trees are planted across the Rideau Valley watershed, from Frontenac to Smiths Falls to downtown Ottawa, helping to fight erosion, manage floods and keep contaminants out of our rivers and lakes. Staff tend to the new trees, helping them grow into maturity so they can thrive for decades – much like your mother did for you.

A single tree costs $25, while a small grove of five is only $100. Ten trees costs $150 and a family grove of 25 trees costs $250 – just $10 a tree.

Online ordering makes it easy and fast. Under the RVCF’s Special Occasion Trees program, simply enter your donation amount and your information, and you’ll receive a charitable tax receipt to your inbox right away. You can even send your mom an e-card right from the foundation site.

The foundation is a registered charity that supports the work of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, which monitors more than 4,000 km² of waterways across 18 municipalities in Eastern Ontario.

The authority is responsible for monitoring water quality, flood risks and other hazards to keep people, property and the environment safe. Planting trees is an important part of the authority’s efforts to promote biodiversity, protect our drinking water and reduce the risk of flooding.

The RVCF plants a combination of white cedar, white pine, red oak and sugar maple.

To order your Mother’s Day trees or make another donation, visit www.canadahelps.org. 

-end-

Bobs and Christie Lakes Still High in Rideau Valley Watershed

May 6, 2019 —A FLOOD WATCH is being maintained for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.

Water levels on both lakes continue to decline slowly but both remain above average for this time of year.  The current water level on Bobs Lake is above the "Full Supply" threshold at which flood damage can occur.  The current water level on Christie Lake is such that some flood damage can also occur. The current forecast indicates between 20 mm and 35 mm of rain could fall later this week. This rainfall will likely increase water levels again on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. 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 are now near seasonal in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed.

Everyone needs to be cautious around lakes and streams with the fluctuating water levels. Children need to be educated about the hazards and kept away from all watercourses. 

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Monday May 13, 2019 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

-end-

More Information:
Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
 or cell 613-799-9423

Media Enquiries:
Diane Downey, RVCA Director of Communications and Outreach
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-3571, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1126
 or cell 613-698-9453

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Warning – Update # 8 — Ottawa River — Arnprior to Hawkesbury

May 3, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The most recent model outputs from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels have peaked on Lac Coulonge and are expected to begin rising again over the next few days. Along the Ottawa River below Lac Coulonge, levels are expected to remain stable or slowly decline over the next few days in all locations. 

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk as snowmelt from the upper Ottawa River basin begins to move through the system.

Levels will remain high for at least the next week but are expected to decline slowly based on the current weather forecasts.  Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation received over the next two to three weeks.  Residents are strongly urged to keep sandbags in place for at least the next two weeks.

MVCA areas of concern: 

Water levels in the Constance Bay area have peaked and have begun to recede.

RVCA areas of concern:

Water levels in Britannia area (Grandview Road, Britannia Village, and the Belltown Community) and the area east of Cumberland Village (Boise Village, Morin Road, Leo Lane) have peaked and begun to recede.

SNC areas of concern:

Water levels in Clarence-Rockland and Alfred-Plantagenet have peaked on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 and have dropped over the last 48 hours.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at 5:00 PM.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.

- end -

"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 area watercourses.

Flood Warning – Update # 7 — Ottawa River — Arnprior to Hawkesbury

May 1, 2019 — Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is maintaining the FLOOD WARNING issued on April 19, 2019 for the areas under our jurisdiction along the Ottawa River.

The most recent model outputs from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee (ORRC) indicate that water levels have peaked on Lac Coulonge.  From Chats Lake down to Hawkesbury/Grenville, levels have stabilized but are expected to increase due to forecasted rain of 15 to 35 mm on a large part of the basin starting today.

All flood-prone areas along the Ottawa River from Lac Coulonge down to the Montreal Archipelago are at risk.

Peak water levels across many areas of the Ottawa River will exceed those experienced in May 2017 over the next couple of days. Levels will remain high and are forecasted to peak between Thursday and Friday. Risk is highly dependent on the amount of precipitation received.

MVCA areas of concern: 

Water levels in the Constance Bay area have exceeded those levels reached in May 2017. The ORRC currently forecasts water levels to rise an additional 0.30 m to 0.50 m above the 2017 levels. Updates to this projection will be provided as they become available.

RVCA areas of concern:

Water levels in the Britannia area (Grandview Road, Britannia Village, and the Belltown Community) have exceeded those levels reached in May 2017. The ORRC currently forecasts water levels to rise an additional 0.30 m to 0.50 m above the 2017 levels. Updates to this projection will be provided as they become available.

Water levels east of Cumberland Village (Boise Village, Morin Road, Leo Lane) are equal to those levels reached in May 2017. The ORRC currently forecasts water levels to rise an additional 0.20 m to 0.40 m above the 2017 levels. Updates to this projection will be provided as they become available.

SNC areas of concern:

Water levels in Clarence-Rockland and Alfred-Plantagenet have risen 0.03 m over the last 48 hours. Levels are forecasted to rise an additional 0.2 m and peak tomorrow, Thursday, May 2. Water levels are expected to be 0.2 m higher than the May 2017 flood.

Due to the forecast uncertainty it is difficult to accurately predict how quickly water levels will rise and when river conditions may peak.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow evolving 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.

This FLOOD WARNING is in effect until Saturday, May 4, 2019.

RVCA and its Ottawa partners, MVCA and SNC monitor the 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 Regulation Planning Board will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecast.php.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit https://www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.

- end -

"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 area watercourses.