Millhaven Dam, Odessa - image from Google Maps
Cataraqui Conservation and regional water managers have started seasonal water level adjustments on managed lakes across the Cataraqui Region.
The annual fall drawdowns take place after the summer recreation season. Officials lower water levels to create more capacity for fall rain, runoff and spring snowmelt, while also helping stabilize levels before winter freeze-up.
Recent rainfall has led to higher flows through some water control structures. Adjustments will continue over the coming weeks and months at several locations, including the Wilton Road Dam on Odessa Lake, Sydenham Lake Dam, Temperance Lake Dam and Fred Grant Dam on Lees Pond.
Work will also take place at the Broome-Runciman Dam at the Buells Creek Reservoir in the Mac Johnson Wildlife Area and the Buells Creek Detention Basin in Brockville.
Water levels may fluctuate through the fall, depending on rainfall, with drawdowns generally expected to be complete by December.
Cataraqui Conservation is reminding residents to stay away from dams, fast-moving water and inflow and outflow channels. People should obey warning signs, barriers, booms and buoys and stay well back from the water’s edge.
