Based on information received from TSW, CEWF understands that as of April 24, 2012:
- TSW is making every effort to fill the reservoir lakes, which are generally not far off being full.
- This has resulted in low flow rates throughout the system, especially on the Gull, negatively impacting the flow-through lakes.
- Precipitation for April to date has been a mere 3 mm – the average is closer to 60. Rain is needed during the next 4 weeks if the reservoirs are to be filled.
- TSW must sustain adequate flow for fisheries e.g. Walleye spawning below Drag Lake
- A bigger concern is the Canal Lakes – while close to the navigational level, they are low for this time of year, and will drop further if there is no rain. There will be pressure to start drawing down the reservoirs early if there is no rain.
Stay tuned for further updates as they become available, including the projected impacts of the Federal budget cuts to Parks Canada.