CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
WATER SAFETY
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
Water Safety, Watershed Condition Statement for Residents of the Catfish Creek Conservation Authorities Administrative Area
Issued on January 10, 2024 at 8:30 a.m.
Issued by: Peter Dragunas, Water Management Technician
Catfish Creek Conservation Authority
(519) 773-9037
This is a Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement indicating that higher than normal creek flows, possible unsafe bank conditions, or other factors could be dangerous for any recreation around waterways, including children and pets. Flooding is not expected at this time.
Effective immediately, the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA) is downgrading the January 9 3:00 p. m. Flood Watch Watershed Condition Statement to a Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement for riverine overflow prone, low-lying areas adjacent to watercourses within the Catfish Creek watershed and its tributaries. At present stream flow and water levels, remain elevated within the Catfish Creek watershed.
The heavier clayed soil within the watershed appear to be saturated, which have a reduced the capacity to absorb rainwaters on the ground. The probability that infiltration of the ponded water is limited in some areas and the subsequent associated runoff has the potential to maintain elevated creek waters within the watershed.
Creek and tributary water levels are expected to decrease in the next 24 hours. Present elevated water levels will result in unsafe channel bank conditions, along with other unpredictable dangers around waterways within the CCCA administrative area. Children, pets and people intending to undertake any recreational activities around watercourses need to abstain from these areas during this time.
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution near all bodies of water, and to keep children and pets away from waterways during times of increased water flow. Landowners are advised to check dams, culverts, and catch basins and make sure they are free from debris and functioning as intended during high water conditions.
CCCA will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will issue updates and recommendations as necessary.
At present this Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until 8:00 a.m. Thursday January 11. Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take appropriate responsible action. Updates will be made available when and if conditions warrant.