OPG Warns Boaters About Low Water Levels

safety-low_water_levels-small

safety-low_water_levels-largeOntario Power Generation (OPG) is reminding people that water levels on many lakes and rivers are much lower than normal for this time of year.

“Most of the province had lower than normal snowfall, and April was one of the driest on record. This means that people going to their cottage or putting their boat in the water may see very low water levels,” said John Murphy, OPG’s Executive Vice President Hydro.

Murphy explained that the lack of precipitation means flows through OPG’s Dams and Stations may be markedly different than what people expect.

“Our safety message is simple: Stay Clear! Stay Safe! That’s true the year round, but this weekend we’re urging people to take extra care in watching water levels as this is a year unlike any other. For example, rocks or shoals that used to be covered by water, may now be near the surface.

“OPG manages the water levels and flows on many rivers and lakes based on water management plans approved by the Ministry of Natural Resources. These plans try to balance the needs of various interests including recreational users and wildlife while also providing water to create clean energy,” he said.

Cottagers, campers and boaters can contact their local water management organization for more information, or go to:

www.opg.com/safety/water/river/

OPG provides a variety of water safety materials, including a brochure and DVD at www.opg.com.

The OPG web site also has award winning water safety public service announcements that were produced in conjunction with the Ontario Provincial Police. These ads will start airing this weekend and run throughout the summer. They are also available on You Tube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyXQ4bag5ik

For further information: OPG Media Relations, 1-877-592-4008, or (416) 592-4008

Related Articles

Video Gallery

Starcraft SV 16 OB

By Craig Ritchie

Photos by Starcraft Marine

Building great boats has always come down to a mix of art and science, and that’s particularly true when it comes to meeting the biggest challenge of all—creating an appealing yet affordable family runabout. Buyers want a boat that is affordable but not stripped to the bare bones.

Enter Starcraft and its delightful SV 16 OB, an all-new-for-2025 family deck boat that elegantly balances comfort, amenities and affordability.

Read More

Destinations

The Erie Canal – An Extraordinary Waterway

By Mark Stevens

Photos by Sharon Matthews-Stevens

As I shift our chartered canal boat into neutral, I’m soothed by the soundtrack of bird calls, the occasional plaintive horn of a distant train and the hum of our engine.

I reach for the VHF to radio the lockmaster in charge of Erie Canal’s Lock 32 dead ahead. Our boat spins gently in the current like a maple key in a mud puddle.

“This is Onondaga,” I say. “Headed westbound and requesting passage.”

Read More

Lifestyle