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City says reservoir levels stable; no mandatory water conservation measures planned
Summary
The city reported that Dix Reservoir levels have stayed above conservation trigger levels and that, despite statewide drought concerns, no mandatory water conservation measures are planned now. Staff urged residents to be mindful of nonessential water use.
City staff told the council on Sept. 24 that Dix Reservoir — Barrie’s water source — is currently above the city’s conservation thresholds and that mandatory water conservation measures are not being implemented. The manager explained the city’s drought management benchmarks: full reservoir elevation is 1,280 feet; the notification threshold is 1,275 feet and the conservation trigger is 1,274 feet. Staff reported recent reservoir readings have hovered around 1,276 feet and that a series of flushings this summer indicated there was operational capacity. The manager said the city monitors levels regularly and that, while surrounding regions have faced severe drought conditions, Barrie had not yet passed the point warranting restrictions. He asked residents to be mindful of nonessential water use — for example, lawn watering — and reminded the public that drought conditions can persist into winter. Councilors asked about contingencies and municipal measures the city could take should levels drop; staff said they would stop nonessential activities such as flushing and coordinate with neighboring communities if mutual aid is needed.
