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 February 25, 2025 at 6:30 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 will 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 issuing a Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement for low-lying areas adjacent to Catfish Creek and its tributaries.  At present stream flow and water levels are below the seasonal average within the Catfish Creek watershed.

The forecast is for a mix of precipitation, which may be heavy at times. The rain and snow water equivalency has the potential for approximately 75mm of available snowpack water equivalent for runoff.   The ground within the watershed is expected to be frozen, which has a reduced capacity to absorb the forecast precipitation and snow melt.

Data shows there remains a probability that infiltration of the forecast rainfall may be limited in some areas and the subsequent associated runoff has the potential to quickly elevate water levels within the watershed and some localized ponding in poorly drained areas is expected.

Creek and tributary water levels are expected to increase during this forecast.  Due to this weather forecast, conditions of potentially higher water levels will result in unsafe channel bank conditions, along with other unpredictable dangers around waterways within the CCCA administrative area.  It is strongly recommended that children, pets and people intending to undertake any recreational activities around watercourses need to abstain from doing so during these increased water levels and flows.

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 circumstances.

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 upgraded or adjusted by the CCCA.  Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take appropriate responsible action.  Updates will be made available when and if conditions warrant.