The Township of Drummond/North Elmsley is giving away FREE TREE saplings to Township residents. Local Scouts will be on site helping to distribute the trees.

WHEN: Saturday May 4, 2024- 9 am to 11 am
LOCATION: Municipal Office 310 Port Elmsley Road

Giveaway Details

• Maximum 15 per household
• While quantities last
• Bring your own container to put your saplings in
• Must be a resident of Drummond/North Elmsley Township
• Homeowner is responsible to plant, water and maintain private tree

Saplings available are dependent on what we receive. We are expecting a mix  of white pine, spruce, and cedar. 

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
Media Release: April 15, 2024

A Flood Outlook Statement is being issued for the Upper Rideau Valley Watershed.
 
Since early April, two large weather systems have brought between 60 to 90 mm of precipitation across the Rideau Valley Watershed. The highest precipitation amounts (90 mm) fell across the Upper Rideau Valley Watershed near Bob’s and Christie Lakes and the Tay River. The weather forecast indicates another 10 to 15 mm of precipitation for the next week.
 
The significant precipitation received since early April has resulted in increased water levels and flows in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed.
 
Based on the above, a FLOOD OUTLOOK is being issued for the properties around Bobs and Christie Lakes in the Upper Rideau Valley Watershed. The water levels are expected to exceed full supply levels by this coming weekend and may result in flooding for low-lying areas. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. Operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. 
 
Residents in low-lying areas near Bobs and Christie Lakes that are historically susceptible to flooding should take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

• Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve
• Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 metres from the dwelling
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s Emergency Preparedness Plan

With the elevated conditions, potential exists for further impacts if significant additional rain were to occur before the water levels and flows begin to recede.
 
Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision. Pets should be leashed near all bodies of water. 
 
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 5 PM unless the forecast or conditions change.

Perth & District Union Public Library
Contact: Erika Heesen, (613) 267-1224
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 Press Release
April 15, 2024 – Toy Lending Library Opens at the Perth & District Library

The Perth & District Union Public Library is now offering a Toy Lending Library! Created with the support of Lanark County Best Start, the collection is made up of high-quality toys and puzzles aimed at ages 0-6.

"Families can borrow these materials just like borrowing a book from the Library," said Heidi Taber, Children's Librarian. "By creating a free accessible collection, it allows all children 0-6 and all families to have access to high quality materials that promote learning through play and foster a love of learning and literacy."

The toys were sourced locally wherever possible, with support from Spring Children in Perth and Wildchild Woodcraft in Tay Valley. Some examples of the toys available to be borrowed are a Pikler triangle, balance beam, ramp, peg puzzles, and Magna-Tiles. The full list of toys can be found by searching the library catalogue for “toy library”. There are no late fees on any children’s materials borrowed from the library, including the Toy Lending Library.

The Perth & District Library offers a wide range of programs and services for children and families, including weekly Babytime, Storytime, March Break and summer programs. To learn more about the services offered by the Library, please visit the library’s website www.perthunionlibrary.ca or call 613-267-1224.  

MEDIA RELEASE:
Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit
April 9, 2024

In 2023, as part of the provinces rabies prevention program, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit responded to over 500 incidents of people being bitten by animals in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Counties. This is not unusual with similar numbers occurring every year.  A large proportion of these incidents involved dogs and in almost all of these incidents the bite could have been prevented.

In recognizing Dog Bite Prevention Week (April 7-April 13), and in an effort to reduce the number of dog bites each year in the LGL region, the Health Unit wishes to remind residents of steps and strategies to prevent the likelihood of being bitten by a dog.  In addition to the risk of exposure to rabies, preventing dog bites reduces the risk of potentially very serious injuries as well as reducing the number of hours spent by people in emergency rooms seeking treatment for dog bites.

The first, and possibly most important, thing to remember is that ANY DOG MAY BITE given the appropriate circumstances, even the cuddliest, fuzziest, good natured dog.  According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs bite for a variety of reasons, but most commonly as a reaction to something. If the dog finds itself in a stressful situation, it may bite to defend itself or its territory. Dogs can bite because they are scared or have been startled. They can bite because they feel threatened. They can bite to protect something that is valuable to them, like their puppies, their food or a toy.  They may also bite because they are not feeling well or are sick or injured.

With these reasons in mind, the Health Unit offers the following precautions to prevent being bitten by a dog:

• Always ask an owner if it is okay to approach their dog, even if it is on a leash.  Don’t just assume the pet is going to be friendly and wanting attention.
• Try to understand dog body language.  Often the signs that a dog may bite are there.
• Be mindful of touching a dog that is sick or injured as they may bite out of fear or confusion.
• When meeting a dog who is new to you, do not approach the dog.  Let the dog approach you.  Offer the back of your hand for the dog to sniff.
• Never tease dogs by taking their toys, food or treats, or pretending to kick or hit.
• Never pull a dog’s ears or tail and never climb on or attempt to ride a dog.
• Leave dogs alone when they are eating or sleeping.
• NEVER leave children alone with a dog.  Young children may not know the necessary precautions to avoid being bitten and may accidentally provoke the dog.  A baby or toddler left alone in a room with a dog for even a few seconds could have tragic consequences.
• If you come across a dog that is loose or unattended, steer clear.
• If a strange dog approaches you, especially an aggressive one, do not panic and do not run away.  Stand still or “be a tree”.  Stand still, head lowered and hands clasped in front of you. In a worst-case scenario, if knocked down, curl into a ball and cover your head and neck with your arms.

As a dog owner:

• Always keep your dog under your control around other people. 
• Ensure anyone who wants to approach your dog does so safely.  If you are unsure how your dog will react, ask for people to give your dog its space or move off of a pathway to give your dog space.
• Remove your dog from situations which it may find stressful.
• Fence your yard and provide an appropriate sign letting visitors know of a dog on the premises.

It is important to teach children about approaching dogs and safety around your family dog. The Health Unit has created a https://healthunit.org/wp-content/uploads/Dog_Bite_Prevention.pdf. Click or tap if you trust this link." data-auth="Verified" data-linkindex="0">Dog Bite Awareness resource for parents, those who work with kids to help educate children and also for vet offices and doggie daycares to post for owners. This is able to be printed and posted or you can contact the Health Unit for a copy.

For more information on preventing dog bites and bites from animals in general, please visit the Health Unit website at https://healthunit.org/health-information/rabies/preventing-animal-bites/. Or call 1-800-660-5853. You can also connect with @LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and X or @lglhealthunit.z on Instagram.

For media interviews, contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Every year Drummond/North Elmsley participates in PITCH IN where our amazing volunteers and residents work hard to clean up litter and waste along the roadsides!

PITCH-IN bags are free to volunteers and can be obtained at the Municipal Office at 310 Port Elmsley Road. Please stop in and let us know which stretch of road you will be picking up on. Bags are also available when the office is closed.

Pick up roadside litter, place it in a PITCH-IN bag and set it out for free collection on your regular day (no bag tag required). Only pitch-in litter will be picked up, do not put your household waste in the yellow bag.

DON’T FORGET to send pictures to the D/NE Twp Facebook page so we can share your hard work and encourage others to join together, expand our areas and set an example to others that we truly care about the beauty and safety of our environment. 

A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS WHO WORK HARD TO KEEP DRUMMOND/NORTH ELMSLEY CLEAN & BEAUTIFUL.

Solar Eclipse Safety Tips

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
Media Release: April 3, 2024

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is issuing a WATER SAFETY message for the entire Rideau Valley Watershed.
 
A Colorado Low is expected to bring significant precipitation to the region, starting Wednesday, April 3 and lasting through Thursday, April 4. The precipitation will fall as a mix of snow and rain. Exact amounts are unknown, but up to 30 mm of rain and up to 20 cm of snow is possible. Currently, water levels and flows are generally low and soil moisture levels are also low across the Rideau Valley watershed.

While significant flooding is not anticipated, water levels and flows in all waterways are expected to increase, especially in smaller tributaries and streams.

Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision. Pets should be leashed near all bodies of water. 
 
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 5 PM unless the forecast or conditions change.
       
                                                               -end-

More Information:
Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

Rain barrels are a great way to save water in the garden.  You can preorder a rain barrel by May 4 for May 11 pickup at the REAL Deal Store.  There will also be native plants, seeds, tree saplings and mushroom compost for sale that day. 

Order your barrel at  rainbarrel.ca/REALDeal.  

 The pickup and sale runs Saturday May 11 from  10 a.m. To 2 p.m. at  85 William St W, Smiths Falls, ON K7A 5A5

For further information call 283-3069 or see http://www.realaction.ca/. 

Lanark County
Media Release
For immediate release March 22, 2024

Construction season is nearly here! Lanark County Public Works plans to complete pavement preservation on 17 kilometres of roads this year, with rehabilitation scheduled for 27.9 km and paved shoulders slated for 20.3 km.

The county oversees the construction, operation, repair and maintenance of more than 560 km of roads and 82 bridge and culvert structures.

The total capital budget for this year is $13.7 million, with the federal Canada Community-Building Fund (formerly known as the federal gas tax) covering almost $2 million and the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund covering $865,851.

“We’re continuing to make progress on our initiative to pave shoulders on all county roads,” explained Terry McCann, public works director.

Asphalt pricing has the largest effect on tender budgets and this year the county has welcomed an 8 per cent decrease in pricing after an historic jump of 54 per cent over the last two years. “With the purchase of more than 26,000 tonnes of asphalt planned for 2024, the county is well prepared to weather potential increases to the asphalt price index, which has surpassed $1 million in recent years,” McCann said.

“The county has a five-year planning process approved by council that is used to set priorities for construction projects,” said Warden Steve Fournier (Drummond/North Elmsley Reeve). “Solid, safe infrastructure is one of our largest assets and is a key component to quality of life in Lanark County. Planning is essential to maintaining the infrastructure in a way that is fiscally responsible.”

Projects for 2024 include:

County Road 10 (Scotch Line and North Street): G. Tackaberry and Sons Construction Company Ltd. will be working on County Road 10 beginning May 13. Work includes pulverizing, adding granular material, completing drainage work, adding a Stress Absorbing Membrane Interlayer (SAMI) and paving with warm mix asphalt for 5.7 km from East of Stanleyville Road to Glen Tay Sideroad as well as from Perthmore Street to the CP Rail Tracks. Work is to be completed by July 19 at a cost of $1.2 million.

County Road 43 (Hwy. 43): Tackaberry and Sons Construction Company Ltd. will be working on County Road 43 beginning June 10. Work includes cold-in-place reclamation and paving with a lift of warm-mix asphalt for 7.6 km from Station Road to Mazie Street. Work is to be completed by Aug. 2 at a cost of $1.7 million.

County Road 6 (Christie Lake Road): Tackaberry and Sons Construction Company Ltd. will be working on County Road 6 beginning May 27. Work includes pulverizing, adding granular, completing drainage work, adding a SAMI and paving with warm mix asphalt for 3.7 km from West of Cameron Sideroad to West of 2nd Con. Bathurst. Work is slated to be completed by July 5 at a cost of $535,512.

County Road 36 (Bolingbroke Road): Crain’s Construction Ltd. Will be working on County Road 36 from April 8 to May 27. Work includes pulverizing, adding granular and completing drainage work from North of Silvery Lane to Red Pine Road for 2.5 km. Double surface treatment with hardened shoulders will be placed at a cost of $526,510.

County Road 20 (Kinburn Sideroad): Thomas Cavanagh Construction Ltd. will be working on County Road 20 beginning July 15. Work includes pulverizing adding granular, complete drainage and paving with warm mix asphalt from Timmins Road to Pakenham Five Span Bridge, for a total length of 1.9 km. Work is scheduled to finish by Aug. 30 at a cost of $759,130.

County Road 511 (Highway 511): Crain’s Construction Ltd. will be working on County Road 511 beginning July 8. Work includes pulverizing, adding granular, completing drainage work and paving with warm-mix asphalt from Tatlock Road northerly for 3.0 km. Work is scheduled to be completed by Oct. 11 at a cost of $1.1 million.

County Road 16 (South Lavant Road): Crain’s Construction Ltd. will be working on County Road 16 beginning May 15. Work includes pulverizing, adding granular and completing drainage work for 3.5 km West of Black Creek Road. Work is scheduled to be finished by June 30, at a cost of $753,290.

Blakeney Bridge: A yet-to-be-chosen contractor will be contracted by Lanark County to replace the Blakeney Bridge, located 800 metres East of Highway 29 on Blakeney Road. Work includes the complete replacement of the bridge structure as well as new abutments, wing walls, guide rails and road alignment improvements. To facilitate the bridge replacement work, bridge access will be closed to the public. Work is scheduled to take place from June to December at an estimated total cost of $3.85 million.

Stress Absorbing Membrane Interlayer (SAMI): This pavement preservation work is scheduled to take place from June 10 to June 25 by Walker Construction Limited at a cost of $431,259.This work will take place as part of the associated road works on County Road 6 and County Road 10.

Culvert Replacement: A total of 11 culverts will be replaced on County Roads 6, 10 and 29 from April to August by Tackaberry and Sons Construction Company Ltd and Crain’s Construction Ltd. at a cost of $248,528.

Micro-surfacing: This pavement preservation work is scheduled to take place from June 3 to Aug. 2 on County Roads 6, 12 and 9 by Miller Paving at a cost of $1.1 million.

Shouldering: A total of 17.1 km of shoulder gravel improvement will be taking place on County Roads 6 and 12 by Tackaberry and Sons Construction Company Ltd. at a cost of $181,184.

McCann notes traffic may be reduced to one lane periodically during these projects. “We ask motorists to please obey signage and traffic control personnel during construction to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Also watch for the county’s public works crews cleaning bridges and conducting roadside mowing, pothole patching and sign repairs throughout the summer. Regular road maintenance activities through other contracts throughout the season include ditching, brushing, crack sealing, line painting and safety barrier repairs.

For more information, contact: 

Terry McCann
Director of Public Works County of Lanark
1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 3190