Jan. 11, 2023 — Conservation Halton

Conservation Halton reminds residents of dangers that can exist near streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes around this time of year and urges people to keep family and pets away from the edges of all waterways.

While temperatures have declined after unseasonably warm weather in December, we are experiencing frequent freeze-thaw cycles and winter storms that bring wet and mixed precipitation. These winter storms have caused abnormal winter runoff that can create hazardous conditions near all waterways, including high water levels and increased velocities in local watercourses.

Fluctuating temperatures can result in thinning ice conditions on local streams and waterbodies. As well, slippery and unstable streambanks and extremely cold water temperatures can lead to hazardous and dangerous conditions close to any body of water.

With the days short and grey, many of us will be itching to get fresh air any way we can. We want to remind all nature seekers to be extremely cautious when outside this winter. We ask that you target trails and steer clear of streams.  

Winter safety tips for residents:

  • Keep people and pets away from all bodies of water
  • Avoid all recreational activities in or around water
  • Tailor your outdoor activities to trails at your local parks and Conservation Areas
  • If you are in danger, call 911 immediately

For more information, contact your local Conservation Authority.

  • Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority            (905) 895-1281
  • Toronto & Region Conservation Authority                 (416) 661-6514
  • Conservation Halton                                                   (905) 336-1158
  • Credit Valley Conservation                                         (905) 670-1615
  • Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority            (905) 579-0411
  • Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority                (905) 885-8173
  • Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority              (705) 424-1479
  • Kawartha Conservation                                              (705) 328-2271

About Conservation Halton’s Flood Forecasting and Operations Program
Conservation Halton provides a flood forecasting and operations program to reduce the risk of property damage and loss of life due to flooding.

When flooding is possible or about to occur, Conservation Halton issues flood messages to municipal emergency management officials, school boards, police, EMS, and the media. Municipal officials take action to warn local residents.

Conservation Halton is responsible for the maintenance and operation of four major flood control dams (Kelso, Hilton Falls, Scotch Block and Mountsberg) and over 12 kilometers of flood conveyance channels (Sixteen Mile Creek through Milton, Morrison-Wedgewood diversion in Oakville and the Rambo-Hager diversion in Burlington).

Conservation Halton is the community based environmental agency that protects, restores, and manages the natural resources in its watershed. The organization has staff that includes ecologists, land use planners, engineers, foresters, and educators, along with a network of volunteers, who are guided by a Board of Directors comprised of municipally elected and appointed citizens. Conservation Halton is recognized for its stewardship of creeks, forests and Niagara Escarpment lands through science-based programs and services.