The month of November saw continued high levels of precipitation across the Lower Trent
Conservation (LTC) watershed region compared to the June- September period. As a result, LTC has
reduced the Level II Low Water condition to a Level I Low Water Condition, as minor drought
conditions are still being experienced throughout the watershed region. This replaces the previous
declaration of a Level II Low Water Condition made on November 17, 2025.
The September to November 3-month precipitation total recorded by Environment Canada at Trenton
is 184.8 millimeters, which is 68 percent of the Long-Term Average (LTA) precipitation for this time of
year (269.2 mm). Drought conditions have been steadily improving, with the most severe drought
conditions in 2025 peaking in September with a Level III Low Water Condition being declared. A 3-
month precipitation total below 80 percent of the LTA is the trigger for a Level I Low Water Condition.
Monthly streamflow in all the subwatersheds across the LTC area have improved to over 100% of the
Lowest Average Summer Month (LASM) flows, a continued improvement from drought conditions
heading into the winter months. Taking into consideration both the precipitation and streamflow
criteria, LTC has reduced the Low Water status from a Level II to a Level I Low Water Condition. During
this time, Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions to determine if additional
actions should be taken.

Under a Level I Low Water Condition, residents, businesses, industries, and municipalities are asked to
voluntarily reduce their water use by 10%. This voluntary reduction, especially for those residents that
rely on private wells, is still an important part of managing drought conditions. Colder temperatures
during winter may reduce the groundwater recharge, thus limiting the impact that precipitation will
have on keeping wells from drying up. Municipalities that source water from Lake Ontario or the Bay of
Quinte have access to a more sustainable water supply. The delivery of water to residents on these
systems is not impacted by current conditions.
If water supply on private systems becomes low or dry, well owners are encouraged to review the
Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) information for managing wells
(https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage#section-2). Those in
need of bulk potable water supply should check with their local municipality for availability and
information on private water haulers.
Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions and report new information as it
becomes available. To learn more about Ontario’s Low Water Response program visit our website at

www.LTC.on.ca. Residents can report any low water observations using the Low Water Reporting Form
on our website.