The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is urging residents and businesses across the watershed to reduce water use by 10 per cent due to ongoing dry weather.
Low rainfall since June, combined with high summer temperatures, has reduced stream flows in many tributaries. The GRCA is relying on upstream reservoirs to help maintain water levels downstream, supporting drinking water systems, wastewater treatment plants, and aquatic habitats.
The call for conservation came from the Grand River Low Water Response Team, which met on August 21. The team includes municipalities, farmers, golf courses, aggregate businesses, and other major users. The entire watershed is now under a Level 1 condition of Ontario’s Low Water Response Program, which asks for voluntary conservation.
Residents are encouraged to follow local outdoor watering bylaws as the most immediate step. More details on the Ontario Low Water Response Program are available on the GRCA website.
Written by Jeremy Hall