Mississippi River Watershed Improves to Level 1 (Minor) Low Water Conditions

From the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Level I Low Water – Indicates that minor water-supply concerns may persist, although conditions have improved relative to those observed earlier in the season.

This Low Water Statement is an update to the statement issued November 21, 2025.

Watershed Conditions:

Over the past couple of months, low water conditions have begun to improve with the return of more seasonal precipitation. Significant rainfall in October, along with several snowfalls through November and December, helped offset the dry conditions experienced in late summer and early fall. These improvements have been reflected in both streamflow and groundwater levels.

Streamflows across the watershed have risen above low-water thresholds and are approaching normal levels, though they remain below what is typically expected for this time of year. MVCA continues to receive reports of low-water conditions; however, many areas are now showing signs of recovery.

This statement is to advise that present conditions in the Mississippi River Watershed have improved to Level I (Minor) Low Water conditions in accordance with the Ontario Low Water Response Program.

Actions: 

The MVCA is encouraging all water users that are not on the City of Ottawa’s municipal distribution network to continue reducing their water consumption by 10% to support continued groundwater recharge and to reduce the risk of further impacts to private water-supply systems during the recovery period. Holders of Permits to Take Water from surface or groundwater sources are strongly encouraged to continue to reduce withdrawals wherever possible.

Residents who may still be experiencing water-supply issues are encouraged to report these impacts via the Report a Low Water Concern form. These reports assist staff in evaluating the extent and current state of the water supply issues.

Conservation authority staff continue to monitor conditions and communicate with water managers throughout the watershed.

Duration: 

This message is in effect until an update has been issued.

For more information: 

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact: MVCA Water Management, 613-253-0006 ext. 248, Water-management@mvc.on.ca.

More Resources:

Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/managing-your-water-well-times-water-shortage

https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-licenced-well-contractors

Ontario’s Low Water Response program:

www.ontario.ca/page/low-water-response-program

Low Water Response Program Status