Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
February 26, 2024

Unseasonably warm temperatures combined with significant rainfall are expected to trigger a widespread melt across the Rideau Valley Watershed this week. Temperatures are expected to rise significantly on Tuesday, February 27 and last until Thursday, February 29, with daily highs exceeding 10°C. Widespread precipitation is also expected during this period, with forecasts estimating between 20 and 30 mm of rainfall.
 
Although snow conditions are considered below normal for this time of year, the warm temperatures and added rain will trigger an accelerated melt. Beginning on Tuesday, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures over this period. If additional rainfall occurs between Tuesday and Thursday, flooding is possible on smaller creeks and streams in the Rideau Valley Watershed, including Stevens Creek and any connected creeks or ditches (near North Gower) which are highly susceptible to spring flooding.

This short-term forecast does not suggest flooding will occur along the Rideau River, however the elevated water levels and flows will make the region more susceptible to flooding if another storm event occurs in the near future.
 
While significant flooding is not anticipated at this time, it is advised that residents adjacent to smaller tributaries and streams take precautionary measures to protect their property, including:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have 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 expected temperature shift over the coming days, ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams and rivers will be unstable. Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.
 
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Monday, March 4, 2024 at 5 PM or until an update has been issued.
      
                                                               -end-

More Information:
Justin Robert, Hydrometric Data Specialist
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6841, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1194
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions

Drummond/North Elmsley's Public Works Department would like to advise all residents that reduced load restriction of five (5) tonnes per axle, will be in force on all Township roads effective Tuesday, February 27th, 2024.

It is an offence, under section 122 of 'The Highway Traffic Act', to transport loads in excess of five (5) tonnes per axle upon roads where reduced loads are in effect. The reduced load period is necessary for the protection of Township Roads that are susceptible to damage during the spring thaw. The restriction will be removed when the likelihood of road damage has diminished. 

Take notice that in accordance with The Corporation of the County of Lanark By-Law #99-07, reduced load restrictions will be in force on designated County Roads effective Tuesday, February 27th, 2024.

A map of all County Roads and the list of County Road exceptions where reduced load periods are not in effect can be viewed at website at https://www.lanarkcounty.ca/en/roads-trails-and-transit/public-consultations.aspx 

For enquiries about reduced loads please contact
The Township of Drummond/North Elmsley
Public Works Department
613-267-6500 ext. 243

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
Media Release
February 9, 2024

Caution is advised as above normal temperatures are forecasted for the Rideau Valley Watershed this weekend. Environment Canada’s short-term weather forecast indicates above-zero temperatures approaching 10 degrees Celsius on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday and Monday, the temperatures are forecast to approach 5 degrees Celsius before cooling off to more seasonal below-zero temperatures next week. Less than 5 mm of precipitation is expected on Friday and Saturday.
 
Water levels and flows are generally average for this time of year across the Rideau Valley Watershed. Although no significant flooding is anticipated, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all creeks and streams in the Rideau Valley Watershed in the coming days. Residents adjacent to smaller creeks and streams are advised to keep a close watch on water levels and flows and should take the necessary precautions to protect their property.
 
The warm temperatures and increased water levels may destabilize existing ice cover, creating unstable conditions and the potential for ice jams.
 
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 Friday, February 16, 2024 at 5 PM or until an update has been issued.

     
                                                               -end-

More Information:
Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and natural resource conservation."

RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:

• Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

• Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.

• Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
Media Release
February 5, 2024 

RIDEAU VALLEY, February 5, 2024 – A new detailed analysis from the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) has found many parts of the Rideau River Watershed are changing fast – and not always with positive results.

The RVCA’s 193-page Watershed Conditions Report is the first of its kind in more than 50 years. It compiles recent and historical monitoring data to assess trends regarding surface and ground water quality, aquatic ecosystem health, hydrological function, natural hazard risks and the status of critical green infrastructure such as wetlands, forests and natural shorelines.

The analysis found several concerning trends, including a continuing steep decline in large woodland patches, increasing chloride levels in our urban streams, and large shifts in surface water flow patterns linked to increased development and loss of wetlands.

The report also identifies knowledge gaps for natural hazard risks such as flooding, erosion and landslides in some parts of the watershed, as well as gaps in robust groundwater quality monitoring in rural communities where private wells are the most common source of drinking water.

“This document will provide invaluable insights for the RVCA and its partners as we continue to strive for balance between conserving our natural resources and helping build safe and thriving communities,” said RVCA General Manager Sommer Casgrain-Robertson. “The issues identified here do not come as a surprise, but now we have data and analysis that will allow us to take targeted action and make measurable improvements for the benefit of all.”

Completion of the conditions report is the first step in the development of a Watershed Management Strategy, which aims to identify areas of concern and then create a strategy to address them. This process will include public consultation later in 2024.

“We look forward to partnering with First Nations, our member municipalities,  partners, stakeholders and the public to develop a strategy that promotes prosperity and health for the entire watershed for generations to come,” Casgrain-Robertson said.

The complete Watershed Conditions Report can be accessed online at www.rvca.ca/conditions-report. To learn more about the conditions report or to receive notifications about upcoming public consultation proceedings, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

February 2, 2024

Perth, Ontario — The Ontario government is investing over $7 million to connect more people to primary care teams in Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston.

This is part of Ontario’s $110 million investment to connect up to 328,000 people to primary care teams, bringing the province one step closer to connecting everyone in Ontario to primary care.

“This significant investment will connect more people to primary care, “said MPP John Jordan, Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston. “This is a critical step toward improving healthcare access for patients who are unattached and most vulnerable in our riding of Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston. By allocating team-based resources, this government is demonstrating a genuine dedication to addressing healthcare gaps and improved health outcomes for Ontarians.”

Ontario currently leads the country with 90 percent of people connected to a regular health care provider. As a next step to close the gap for people not connected to primary care in the community, the province is supporting new and expanded interprofessional primary care teams in Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston.

The $3,145,135 allocated to Perth Family Medicine FHO Association will allow an estimated 3,500 residents to connect to primary care, while the $4,153,311 allocated to the Kingston CHC and its partners will serve an estimated 10,000 unattached patients.

“Our community is incredibly grateful to MPP Jordan and the Ontario government for their support of our interprofessional primary care team,” said Perth Family Medicine FHO Association’s Dr. Shelly Xu. “This funding will substantially improve patient access to primary care in our region. It will provide funding towards access to allied mental health professionals and improve access to services for our geriatric population, keeping them well at home for longer. We are excited for our patients and our community!”

Interprofessional primary care teams connect people to a range of health professionals that work together under one roof, including doctors, nurse practitioners, registered and practical nurses, physiotherapists, social workers and dietitians, among others. Timely access to primary care helps people stay healthier for longer with faster diagnosis and treatment, as well as more consistent support managing their day-to-day health while relieving pressures on emergency departments and walk-in clinics.

“Our government is making record investments to ensure that everyone that wants to have a primary care provider can connect to one,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “While there is more work to do, giving hundreds of thousands of more Ontarians the opportunity to connect to primary care brings us that much closer to this goal.”

In addition to other historic investments to expand medical school spots and efforts to break down barriers so highly-skilled internationally-trained doctors can care for people in Ontario, Ministry of Health modelling shows that these initiatives will help connect up to 98 per cent of people in Ontario to primary care in the next several years.

“This significant investment in Team-Based care will impact the lives of thousands of patients, support pressures on the health system, and ultimately contribute to enhanced community well-being. KCHC, along with Queen’s and all the partners within the FLAOHT are thrilled to turn this investment into a reality”, said Mike Bell, CEO of Kingston Community Health Centres.

Since the launch of Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care one year ago, the government has been making steady progress to ensure the health care system has become better equipped to respond to the needs of patients and provide them with the right care in the right place, faster access to services and access to an expanded health care workforce.

 Quick Facts:

•  As a next step to close the gap for the 1.3 million people not connected to primary care in the province, the government is making a record investment of $90 million to add over 400 new primary care providers as part of 78 new and expanded interprofessional primary care teams. The new and expanded teams will include Family Health Teams, Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinics, Community Health Centres and Indigenous Primary Health Care Organizations.
  
  
• Ontario’s investment of $90 million dollars triples the original $30 million dollars earmarked to expand interprofessional primary care teams and will deliver over four times as many initiatives as outlined in our Your Health Plan almost a year ago.
  
  
• The new and expanded teams are the result of a province-wide call for proposals that took place in 2023. All proposals were thoroughly reviewed by Ontario Health based on criteria prioritizing areas of greatest need, to connect a greater number of people currently without a regular primary care provider with these services closer to home.
  
  
• Ontario is the first province to have a publicly funded Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic program. This is in addition to the new Practice Ready Ontario Program that will add 50 new physicians this year.
  
  
• Ontario leads the country in how many people benefit from a long-term, stable relationship with a family doctor or primary care provider. Since 2018 the province has added over 80,000 new nurses and 10,300 new physicians to the health care system.
  
  
• Ontario invests over $1 billion in interprofessional primary care teams annually.

MPP John Jordan, Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston

www.johnjordanmpp.ca

613-284-1630

Facebook: John Jordan, MPP Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston

Twitter: @johnjordan_lfk

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
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2024

The Perth & District Union Public Library is now offering “memory kits” for borrowing at the library. Generously sponsored by Ray and Elaine Hook, these Memory Kits are designed to stimulate the brain activity in people experiencing cognitive decline, including memory loss and forms of dementia like Alzheimer’s disease.

“These kits are for anyone who would like to reminisce and encourages social connection, exercises the mind, and helps the user retain skills,” said Erika Heesen, CEO/Chief Librarian. “We’re very grateful to Ray and Elaine for their support of this initiative”.

The Library has five kits, designed with a theme: remembering gardens, music, the 1940's, 50's, and 60's. Each kit has something to read, to watch, to listen to, to create and games to play, and includes brochures and info sheets from the Alzheimer Society of Lanark Leeds Grenville.

"My last job after leaving the Military some 14 years ago was a most satisfying job of running a Women’s Shelter in Alberta. The feeling of being able to help those less fortunate than us left a strong impression on me. After moving to Perth a few years ago, Elaine and I decided to try and help the local library, as we believed in their mission and their programs – all designed to help people in so many ways,” said Ray Hook. “What a super initiative it was and it appealed to us right away – helping people who need it! Then to see the results of the kits – we are thrilled to have been a part of it”.

To learn more about the services offered by the Library, please visit the library’s website www.perthunionlibrary.ca or call 613-267-1224.

To learn more about the services offered by the Alzheimer Society, please visit their website https://alzheimer.ca/lanark/en or call 613-345-7392.

Due to expected freezing rain and icy road conditions, please be advised that the Municipal Office will be CLOSED on Friday, January 26, 2024. The Code Road Landfill we be open from 10am - 5pm on Friday.

The Township’s Public Works Department, as essential municipal services, will operate normally keeping our roads safe by plowing and sanding.  Office Staff will be working from home and will be checking emails and voicemails throughout the day.  If you need to reach someone, email is the quickest way to reach our staff.

We encourage you to take precautions to ensure your safety particularly while traveling.

January 15, 2024

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is issuing a WATER SAFETY message for the entire Rideau Valley Watershed due to the potential for localized ice jams which could cause sudden water level increases and flooding.
 
Following a period of warmer than usual temperatures and then a significant snowstorm, Environment Canada is forecasting cold temperatures, as low as -20°C overnight, for the next week with little precipitation. The forecast also indicates sustained winds are expected, which will cause wind chill temperatures.

Many waterways are not yet frozen and with the onset of colder weather, there is a potential in localized areas for ice to form quickly, especially on water structures such as bridge abutments, piers, riverbanks, and channels. This could obstruct the flow of water and cause local water levels to rise. Any sudden water level increases may cause localized flooding. Parks Canada, which manages water levels for the Rideau Canal waterway, is also undertaking necessary dam operations in some areas which may increase the potential for rapid ice formation during this cold spell.
 
Residents are advised to stay away from all rivers and watercourses in the vicinity of any ice jams and high water areas. Parents are encouraged to explain these dangers to their children.
 
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Thursday, January 25, 2024 at 5 PM and may be updated at that time 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
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and natural resource conservation."

RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:

• Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

• Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.

• Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.

Lanark County Media Release
For immediate release
Jan. 10, 2024

Here are the highlights from the Lanark County Council meeting held Jan. 10, 2024.

Support for Settlement Application: Lanark County Council has supported an application to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) funding program to help close a significant gap in services to assist newcomers settling in Lanark and Renfrew counties.

Clerk Jasmin Ralph explained the county was successful in receiving funding for its Rural Inclusion Pilot Project in conjunction with Renfrew County last year, and work is underway to develop and expand the program that aims to support immigration by connecting individuals, counties and industries. “Many businesses and organizations have expressed a need for support, and more services are needed in the community to provide to newcomers.”

IRCC released a call for proposals in December for settlement and resettlement assistance programs that meets an Immigration and Refugee Protection Act objective that supports successful integration of permanent residents into Canada while recognizing there are mutual obligations to achieve this. Funding would begin in April 2025 and end no later than March 31, 2030.

The application would support:
• 5.5 employees, including a program manager, two settlement officers for each county and a parttime coordinator • Rural “mobile” service-delivery model allowing staff to travel to meet clients for service access, including needs assessments and referrals, information and orientation, language training, employment supports, and community connections including with local Indigenous Peoples
• Pre-arrival supports
• Collaboration with economic development departments to offer employment services to help fill local labour shortages

“The project will bring a full range of settlement services into our rural community to help newcomers settle, integrate and fully participate in the local community and local economy,” Ralph said, adding if the application is successful, IRCC would fund 100 per cent of the proposed program, and it could positively impact local economic development by supporting growth and labour force development. For more information, contact Jasmin Ralph, Clerk, at 1-888-9-LANARK, ext. 1502

Upcoming Meetings: County Council, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 5 p.m.; Public Works, Jan. 24 (following County Council); Economic Development, Jan. 24 (following Public Works). County Council, Wednesday, Feb. 14, 5 p.m.; Community Services, Feb. 14 (following County Council); Corporate Services, Feb. 14 (following Community Services). Watch for details about public access to meetings on agendas and through online notifications. For more information, contact 1-888-9- LANARK, ext. 1502. Like "LanarkCounty1" on Facebook and follow "@LanarkCounty1" on X!

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