CRCA issues Sydenham Lake ice hazard bulletin

Kingston - The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA) is warning about unsafe ice conditions on Sydenham Lake as it is lowered to normal winter levels.
Snowmelt from last week's record-breaking, warm temperatures caused the lake to rise, according to CRCA staff.

"The lake is currently six inches above normal winter levels," explains CRCA Watershed Management Coordinator Mara Shaw. "The CRCA staff is lowering the lake to create capacity for the spring freshet runoff."

The CRCA lowers the lake level as required every winter.

Environment Canada is predicting a return to sub-zero temperatures, particularly for this weekend. The CRCA staff is warning that the ice that will be forming may have air pockets under it because the water level on the lake will continue to be lowered. This will cause unsafe ice conditions. Residents are advised to stay off the ice.
CRCA staff will end the drawdown when the lake reaches normal levels.

Questions should be directed to Ms. Shaw at (613) 546-4228 ext. 228.

For more information call:

Mara Shaw, Watershed Management Coordinator (613) 546-4228 ext. 228
Toll-free (in 613): 1-877-956-2722 ext. 228