Kawartha Lakes urges water conservation amid recent summer heat

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: As temperatures soar this summer, the City of Kawartha Lakes is calling on residents and visitors to cut back on non-essential water use, to help protect the municipal drinking water supply.

“The hot weather means, we all tend to use more water for activities like watering lawns, washing cars, and filling pools,” said Bryan Robinson, Director of Public Works for the City of Kawartha Lakes. “This puts extra strain on our water systems which rely on natural sources like lakes, rivers, and groundwater. All of the sources which depend on rainfall and snowmelt to stay replenished.”

Kawartha Lakes operates 21 drinking water systems across the region. These systems face increasing challenges during dry, hot spells. Groundwater levels drop, making it harder to pump water, while surface water sources may see declines in both quantity and quality.

“Our treatment facilities work hard to keep up with the increased demand during summer,” Mr. Robinson explained. “But many of our systems don’t have the capacity to store large amounts of treated water. If demand outpaces supply, we may have to bring in water from other systems which can be a costly and complex process.”

The municipality is, therefore, asking everyone to avoid non-essential water use, including: washing vehicles, watering lawns, and filling swimming pools. Instead, residents are encouraged to use water hauling services for pool filling.

Local resident Mark Davies noted, “It’s easy to take water for granted in the summer but knowing the systems are under pressure makes me want to be more careful. Simple things, like skipping the car wash or watering less, can really add up.”

By making these small changes, Kawartha Lakes aims to ensure clean, reliable drinking water is available for all, throughout the season.

“Every drop saved helps,” Mr. Robinson emphasized. “Together, we can keep our water safe and sustainable, even in the heat.”