The water level seems low this year (August 2005). Who controls the level?
A Rideau System website has posted a low water level advisory with a contact number (Kerry McGonegal, Water Management Officer for the Rideau Canal, 613-283-7199 x249). In the advisory they say that the levels on Sand Lake and Colonel By Lake are of particular concern, and the levels are below chart datum (level at which 5 ft of depth is available for navigation). This is due to the very dry summer for our region (about 20% below normal rainfall levels, 8th in the top ten driest years on record since the 50’s or so), and extreme heat (2.1 degrees C above normal for all of Canada). I pulled this information from the Environment Canada web site. I spoke with Kerry, and he indicated there is only 4.5 feet of depth for navigation, and boaters passing through the locks are being given waivers to sign for passage. He did not know if the situation would improve or worsen. He did indicate that the hydro plant does not operate for the summer months. I intend to investigate further.
