Rideau Canal Faces Shallow Waters Amid Severe Low Water Advisory

URGENT UPDATE: The Rideau Canal is experiencing significant water level reductions, particularly in its southern sections, as Parks Canada reports a severe low water advisory for the region. The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) has issued a “Level 3 – Severe” low water advisory, indicating critical dry conditions across the watershed.

While the overall navigation season on the Rideau Canal is not immediately at risk, officials warn that the southern segment, stretching from Newboro Lockstation to Kingston Mills, is now shallower than normal. The available draft has plummeted from the standard 5 feet to just 4 feet 7 inches, with expectations it may further drop to 4 feet 5 inches by August 25, 2025.

Parks Canada confirmed that the canal system is receding faster than typical due to a lack of rainfall this summer. In August alone, Ottawa has received only 13.3 millimeters of rain, while Kingston recorded 31 mm. Both cities are significantly below the monthly average of 79 mm as reported by Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Officials are actively monitoring the situation to ensure navigation remains viable. “Parks Canada has implemented management measures to conserve water to support navigation while balancing the needs of shoreline residents, municipalities, and ecosystems across the watershed,” the agency stated.

Boaters are urged to take immediate action. Those traveling in the affected southern section with vessels requiring more than 4 feet of water are advised to contact Parks Canada for updated water levels at 613-283-5170.

With sustained high temperatures and reduced precipitation, the situation remains critical. The RVCA emphasizes that while the advisory is not an emergency declaration, it highlights the significant impacts of ongoing dry conditions.

Parks Canada reassures that the northern part of the Rideau Canal, from Ottawa to Smiths Falls, remains within normal navigation parameters, but continued monitoring is essential as weather conditions evolve.

Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. Share this news to keep fellow boaters informed and safe on the waters of the Rideau Canal!