Bulletin: Watershed Conditions Statement

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety bulletin is in effect until 4:00 pm Thursday April 6, 2023. This message will effect residents within the MNRF Bracebridge Minden Parry Sound District which includes the District Municipality of Muskoka, the Territorial District of Parry Sound and the County of Haliburton.

Runoff to local lakes and rivers is anticipated to increase. Water levels and river flows are expected to rise with increased runoff.

No ice is safe ice. Ice conditions on local lakes have deteriorated with warmer temperatures and changing water levels and flows.

With rain, warmer temperatures and melting snow, banks and shorelines adjacent to water bodies can be extremely slippery and unstable. Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around waterbodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets.

MNRF also advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities as they may become seasonally inundated with water, are prone to washouts and may become impassible due to localized flooding.

Residents are reminded to keep a close watch on conditions and regularly check for updated messages.