CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
WATER SAFETY
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
Water Safety, Watershed Condition Statement for Residents of Catfish Creek Watershed
Issued on March 2, 2026, at 8:45 A.M.
Issued by: Peter Dragunas, Water Management Technician
Catfish Creek Conservation Authority
(519) 773-9037
This is a Water Safety, Watershed Condition Statement reminding residents that warming temperatures increase river flows, melting snow will produce slippery and unsafe riverbanks, and that other unforeseen factors could be dangerous for waterway recreators. Flooding is not expected at this time.
Effective immediately, the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority is issuing a Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement for all areas adjacent to watercourses for the Catfish Creek watershed and its tributaries. At present stream flow and water levels fluctuate considerably between above and below average within the Catfish Creek watershed. The weather forecast calls for a seven-day warming trend with daytime and nighttime temperatures above 0 degrees along with precipitation in the form of rain. Snow melt coupled with precipitation run-off is inevitable.
Due to these forecast weather conditions, there is a capacity for water ponding on waterbodies which has the potential to compromise any existing ice conditions in these areas. People intending to undertake any recreational activities around watercourses need to be informed and aware of the damaging/harmful problems and need to abstain from these areas under these conditions.
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution near open or still frozen bodies of water, and to keep children away from waterways during these times of increased water flow. Landowners are advised to check dams, culverts, and catch basins and make sure they are free from debris and function as intended during adverse water conditions.
CCCA will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will issue updates and recommendations, as necessary. CCCA always recommends taking any necessary precautions to minimize the results of flood impacts of the Catfish Creek and its tributaries.
This Watershed Condition Statement is in effect until 12:00 p.m., Monday March 9, and will be adjusted accordingly if called for or otherwise expires. Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take responsible action. Updates will be made available when and if conditions warrant.