Despite a return to normal monthly rainfall totals in October, 2015 has been a dry year across the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority watershed.
Precipitation totals have been below normal all year with the exception of only two months, according to the ABCA’s Water Response Team. As of November 1, rainfall deficits are greater than 150 mm compared to normal values in some areas. The shortfall has resulted in extremely dry conditions and stressed stream flows in local watercourses.
The ABCA is sticking with a Level 1 Low Water Advisory and it could stay in effect through the winter.
Water Response Team Chair Mike Tam says while water usage has declined the are potential impacts of a drier than normal fall and winter.
The Water Response Team was formed in 2001 in response to the low-water conditions and includes representatives of major water users.
