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WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT: Water Safety
The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority advises a series of low-pressure systems will continue to bring rainfall to the region over the next couple of days. Local watercourses are still experiencing higher than normal water levels and flows after receiving up to 40mm of rain over the past three days. Up to 10mm of additional rainfall is expected today, April 15th, with another 15mm possible tomorrow. A short break in the wet weather is expected on Friday, April 17th, before the next system moves in over the weekend. This Watershed Conditions Statement will be in effect until Sunday, April 19th, 2026, at 12 p.m. Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions and provide updates as necessary.
Protected: Ganaraska Forest Reopens for the Season On May 1st
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Protected: Ganaraska Conservation Spring Newsletter 2026
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Fishing Season Opens April 26, 2026
With the spring fishing season opening on April 25, 2026, the GRCA wanted to share some updates for anglers. Fishing can occur on the east side of the Ganaraska River, within the Ganaraska Millennium Conservation Area (CA). Sylvan Glen CA is also available for fishing, while being mindful of property lines. Port Hope CA will remain closed due to Highway 401 expansion work.
Ganaraska Forest Hunting Reminders
With turkey season opening on April 25th, 2026, the GRCA wanted to share some reminders for Ganaraska Forest users. Hunting opportunities exist in the Ganaraska Forest year-round, as per Ontario Hunting Regulations. Before planning to hunt in the Ganaraska Forest, all hunters should visit the GRCA website for more information on hunting rules in the Forest and to consult the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map before planning your visit.
Rain Barrel Sale 2026: Conserve Water & Save Costs At Home
This sale is available for a limited time, so act fast and order before June 1st! Discounted pricing is available for residents within the Township of Hamilton, Town of Cobourg, the Municipality of Port Hope and the Municipality of Clarington, within the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority jurisdiction. Please visit https://rainbarrel.ca/grca and view available products at the bottom of the page. Order before June 1st to receive a discount on each barrel, to be delivered directly to you.
Statement Ended: Flood Watch
THIS FLOOD WATCH HAS ENDED: The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority advises water levels are expected to rise in response to heavy rainfall overnight. The Ganaraska Watersheds received between 30 and 50mm of rainfall this morning, March 31st, 2026, and a further 10 to 15mm is possible by this evening. Water levels and flows in local streams have been slightly elevated over the past two days due to warm temperatures melting the remaining snowpack. Ground conditions are saturated and will not absorb any more rainfall leading to higher rates of runoff. With the forecasted rainfall today, water levels and flows will continue to rise into this evening and will likely peak overnight. High water levels in local creeks could cause flooding of adjacent flood plains and low-lying areas. This Flood Watch applies to the Ganaraska River and local creeks within the Ganaraska region and will be in effect until Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 at 8pm. Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.
Spring Safety Statement: Stay Clear of Creeks, Ponds & Lakes
With the arrival of spring weather, unsafe ice conditions and slippery stream banks already exist. Mild air temperatures and high flows from spring rains will continue to weaken any remaining ice cover. These hazardous conditions can cause life-threatening injury if a person falls into the extremely cold water.
Upcoming Four Directions Speaker Series
Mino Bimaadiziwin: Join Us for a FREE, Five-Part Series Exploring Anishinaabe Worldview, Teachings & Storytelling Based on the Four Directions. The Sophia Hilton Foundation of Canada and Ganaraska Conservation are pleased to present this five-part speakers series, featuring: Dr. Jennifer Meness, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation & Professor of Indigenous Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University. This series will take place in the Ganaraska Millennium Building (south-eastern building) at 2216 County Road 28, Port Hope. For tickets and additional information, please visit: https://grca.on.ca/speaker-series/
Winter Rec. Opportunities Still Available Until Forest Reopens to All Activities On May 1st!
This Saturday, Feb. 28th, marks the last day of the season for cycling and horseback riding in the Ganaraska Forest. But, on May 1st, the GRCA looks forward to welcoming back all recreational user types, including motorized, horseback and cycling! For the remainder of the season, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities continue to be available with a Day Pass or Forest Membership. Reminder, cross-country ski trails are one-way and exclusive to skiers during the winter season. Please do not purchase cycling or horseback day passes from the online store beyond the Feb. 28th date.
Winter Safety Reminders For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Plan, Prepare & Play Safe in the Winter: Whether you are planning to cross-country ski, snowshoe or hike, being prepared for changing weather can keep you safe throughout the winter season. To help you get outside the winter, Ganaraska Conservation staff have put together a list of suggestions to keep you safe and comfortable. By planning ahead, you can still enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Low Water Advisory Ended: Watershed Conditions Return to Normal
With several precipitation events so far this winter, the watersheds in the Ganaraska Region have recovered to normal conditions. In December 2025, the region received 75mm or 106% of normal rainfall. This has brought stream flows up and is likely resulting in some groundwater recharge where there is little ground frost. The 3-month and 18-month total rainfall indicators are currently at 88% and 82% of normal respectively. When all three rainfall indicators are above 80%, watersheds are considered to be in the normal range. In addition, stream flow indicators are well above normal for this time of year as a result of the winter rain and snowmelt runoff.