The Mattagami Region Conservation Authority participates in Ontario’s Low Water Response Program. It is a program established to deal with the environmental and economic impacts resulting from periods of drought and low water. The program is coordinated locally through the Upper Mattagami Water Management Committee and consists of a four level warning system. With effects of climatic change and changing weather patterns now well documented, the intent of the program is to ensure we have access to a water supply to meet our critical needs.
A watershed is considered to be in drought conditions if it is experiencing:
- below normal levels of precipitation over an extended period of time; or
- streamflows that are at a minimum required to sustain aquatic life; or
- low water conditions that are causing socio-economic effects.
NORMAL – No actions required.
LEVEL I – Potential water supply problems are identified.
Water users will be asked to voluntarily reduce their water consumption by 10%.
LEVEL II – Minor water supply issues are encountered.
Water users will be asked to voluntarily reduce their water consumption by 20%.
LEVEL III – Supply no longer meets demand and impacts are experienced.
Restrictions on water use will be put into action.
