Kawartha Conservation - Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety - April 27, 2026

Based on information from Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources – Surface Water Monitoring Center, Kawartha Conservation is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety on Monday April 27, 2026, until Friday May 1, 2026. This Water Safety statement applies to the shoreline areas and waterbodies located within the Kawartha Conservation Watershed boundary.

Water levels and flows within the Kawartha Conservation watershed are beginning to recede following elevated conditions experienced over the past several weeks. Current forecasts indicate favorable conditions, with approximately 15-20mm of precipitation, and near seasonal air temperatures throughout the week.

Lakes across the watershed that remain above normal levels are anticipated to gradually recede throughout the week as water management operations progress along the Trent–Severn Waterway. Northern tributaries are also recovering from significant inflows from upstream watersheds, reducing pressure on the lakes within the Kawartha Conservation watershed.

At this time, there is no anticipated risk of additional flooding within the watershed, however, waterbodies may continue to pose safety hazards until conditions stabilize.  Watercourses may exhibit unidentified erosion damage or unstable banks, and some shorelines may still experience localized pooling or minor flooding until water levels return to their seasonal normal.

Residents are advised to exercise caution around all watercourses during this time. Parents and pet owners are reminded to supervise children near all watercourses.

Kawartha Conservation continues to closely monitor weather forecasts, water levels, and flows across the watershed. We remain in communication with partner agencies including the Trent-Severn Waterway, Ministry of Natural Resources - Surface Water Monitoring Centre, and neighboring Conservation Authorities.

Northern tributaries, such as the Burnt River and Gull River, are monitored by Ministry of Natural Resources staff. Residents with questions regarding water levels along these rivers are encouraged to contact the Minden Area Office at 705-286-1521 or refer to current flood messages issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Watershed residents, local municipalities, and partner agencies will continue to receive updates through the Kawartha Conservation website, media outlets, and social media channels. Residents may also subscribe to receive flood messages directly.

This Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety will remain in effect until May 1, 2026, or will be updated as required.