Blue-Green Algae detected in Upper Rideau Lake
An August 16th water sample taken by the MOECC on Upper Rideau has returned positive for blue-green algae containing detectible microcystin. The testing shows, however, that the levels of microsystins are below the danger level for drinking water.
For information about Blue-Green Algae, refer to our Resources page.
Managing Your Water Well in Times of Water Shortage
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has provided this reference for private well owners and groundwater users to improve existing water supplies or correct groundwater supply problems during this time of water shortage this summer - https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage.
Health Unit urges well users to monitor water usage and quality
The Leeds, Grenville & Lanark Health Unit has issued a warning that, because of the severe drought conditions we are currently experiencing, well users are at risk and should be testing their water and conserving it where possible. Click here for the full news release.
Drought Conditions Deepending - Areas of Watershed in Level III / Severe Drough
The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority has a severe drought warning for its watershed. Click here to read it.
RVCA Report - "Algae - Too Much of a Good Thing"
There have been several reports of an increased number of algae blooms on the lake this year. With the high temperatures and sun we've experienced this summer, the prevalence of algae is not surprising.
RVCA's statement released today notes a number of things lake residents can do to ensure they are not contributing to the high level of algae in our lake:
- Good septic system maintenance
- Increase plant cover on your property
- Reduce runoff from your property
Click here to read the RVCA statement.
Its important to remember that most algae blooms are green blooms, not blue-green blooms (which can be toxic). As the RVCA statment noted, algae and aquatic plants play an important role in maintaining the health of our waterbodies. But when you have too much — it can negatively impact recreational use and threaten our aquatic ecosystems.
For more information about blue-green algae, refer to the following website links:
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
Celebrate Canada Day with Parks Canada
Parks Canada celebrates on July 1st with free lockage on the Rideau Canal system as well as free admission at all national parks, national marine conservation areas and Parks Canada-administered national historic sites.
As announced in Budget 2016, admission and lockage will be also be free all year in 2017 in celebration of Canada 150.
Visit www.pc.gc.ca to find out about the special events that Parks Canada is planning across the country on Canada Day.
Information Bulletin - Reduced Water Levels on the Rideau Canal
OTTAWA, ONTARIO, JUNE 29, 2016 –The Rideau Canal is currently experiencing reduced water levels in the Southern Sector of the system (from Narrows Lockstation to Lake Ontario) due to a lack of precipitation and evaporation caused by unseasonably high temperatures.
Navigation is currently not impacted and boat traffic can continue to move freely across the entire system.
Parks Canada water management staff are working with our partners to manage water flows on a system wide basis to ensure sufficient water levels to meet the broad range of needs including recreation, municipal water supply and fisheries management.
Developments regarding this matter will be communicated through the Rideau Canal website and social media, and when required, through a Canadian Coast Guard Notice to Shipping.
For classic boat enthusiasts, the latest "Brass Binnacle" is posted
The Manotick chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society has published its summer newsletter, filled with news and photos of the many events and activities they have going on this year, including group cruises, socials and vintage boat shows. For those interested in purchasing a classic boat, a number are advertised in the newsletter's marketplace section. Click here to read the July 2016 edition of the Brass Binnacle; more information can be found on the Manotick Classic Boat Club's website.
One of the events planned is the Antique & Classic Boat Show at Rideau Ferry:
