Residents in the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry are being urged to exercise caution near waterways as local conservation authorities manage high water levels caused by recent snowmelt and fluctuating temperatures.
South Nation Conservation has issued a water safety statement for the region that remains in effect until 5:00 p.m. on March 30, 2026. While most of the snowpack has melted, officials warn that ground conditions remain saturated and unable to absorb additional moisture, with Environment Canada forecasting further precipitation and temperatures hovering near the freezing mark.
The Raisin Region Conservation Authority has also extended a separate safety advisory for its jurisdiction, which includes Cornwall and parts of the surrounding counties, until 4:00 p.m. on April 7, 2026. This authority is actively monitoring and managing water levels at Loch Garry, Middle Lake, and Mill Pond to lower the risk of flooding. As a result of these management operations, water levels in the Garry River downstream may rise suddenly.
The Garry River system, which provides water to Alexandria and Maxville, has been a focus for infrastructure upgrades. The United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry continues to deal with the effects of the spring thaw following a more significant flood warning earlier in the month, which was downgraded on March 16. In response to long-term needs, the Township of North Glengarry is currently seeking provincial funding for a project to rehabilitate dams and improve channel resilience along the Garry River.
