To: Watershed News Media

Date: April 6, 2009

Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority issues
watershed conditions bulletin

Kingston - The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA) cautions residents of the region that water levels are high and water is moving quickly. However, water levels are not anticipated to rise significantly in the CRCA jurisdiction that extends from Napanee to Brockville and north to Newboro. Widespread flooding is not forecast to occur from this storm system. Localized flooding may occur from blocked culverts or constrictions in waterways.

Caution should be exercised near watercourses. The water is cold and flows are often faster than they appear. Parents are encouraged to keep children and pets away from waterways.

This bulletin is based upon Environment Canada predictions of rainfall and the CRCA's monitoring of precipitation, flows in creeks and rivers and lake levels. The CRCA continues to monitor stream flows and watershed condtions as part of its flood forecasting and warning mandate.

Flood forecasts will be updated as conditions warrant on the CRCA Flood Forecasting Hotline: (613) 546-4228 ext. 503, or, toll-free in 613, 1-877-956-CRCA ext. 503.

Newsrooms please note:
A watershed conditions bulletin is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions. A watershed conditions bulletin may suggest unsafe water, ice or bank conditions that may pose potential safety issues on local waterways.

A flood advisory is issued when there is potential for flooding to occur in low-lying areas. Municipal emergency response officials are notified that a potential for flooding exists.

A flood warning is issued when there is impending flooding. A flood warning requires action that may include the activation of the municipal emergency response plan, warning residents or businesses in specific affected areas, and in some cases, evacuation.

For more information call:

Mara Shaw, Watershed Management Coordinator

(613) 546-4228 ext. 228 or toll-free (613 area code) 1-877 956-CRCA ext. 228