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Level 1 Low Water Advisory: Mild Drought
In response to the continued lack of rainfall, the watersheds of the Ganaraska Region have entered a Level 2 Low Water Condition. As a result, the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority is asking residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce their water use. Abnormally dry conditions since the beginning of June have resulted in below average stream flows, depleted soil moisture levels and the potential for water supplies not able to keep up with demand. Low stream flows can cause stress on aquatic ecosystems due to increasing temperatures and water quality issues. Low rainfall is especially important for surface water takers and shallow well users. For residents experiencing problems with their shallow wells, information is available through the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) website. GRCA watersheds have received 52% of the normal rainfall over the past three months, entering into a level 2 low water condition, because precipitation levels have fallen below 60% of normal. The affected major watersheds are Cobourg Creek, Gages Creek, Ganaraska River, Port Britain Creek, Graham Creek, Wilmot Creek, and other numerous smaller tributaries of Rice Lake and Lake Ontario. More consistent rainfall is needed at this point to prevent longer term water supply shortages in streams and groundwater resources. The GRCA encourages water users to be aware of water consumption rates in an effort to reduce water use by 20%. These measures will help to avoid further water shortages in the coming months and prevent negative impacts on aquatic life should below normal rainfall amounts continue.
Ganaraska Forest Timber Harvest Season Begins Again
The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) completes scheduled, selective harvest of Red Pine plantations in the Ganaraska Forest each year. These logging operations, guided by the Forest Management Plan, facilitate the growth of native tree species, like Red Oak, White Pine and Sugar Maple, all of which were included in the initial landscape restoration plans when the Forest was being planted over 80 years ago. Operations will take place across the West Forest, including a combination of selective thinning and final removals, remaining active until February 28, 2026.
Important Logging Safety Reminders For Ganaraska Forest Users
The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) would like to remind Forest users to exercise caution and yield the right of way to logging equipment during timber harvest operations in the Ganaraska Forest. Please check the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map for trail / road closures related to the annual harvest, before planning your visit to the Forest. Avoiding parking lots and routes that could conflict with logging operations is the safest way for visitors to enjoy the Forest during these operations.
Improvements Planned For Richardson’s Lookout Conservation Area
Work to replace the Richardson’s Lookout stairs will begin today, Aug. 18th, 2025, requiring a temporary closure.
GRCA staff and contractors will be working to improve access to the area by replacing the existing stairs, along with removing some stumps. Visitors are asked to follow posted signage and not enter the area during construction, which will continue into the fall.
Please consider visiting one of seven available GRCA conservation areas or the nearby Ganaraska Forest during construction.
Updates will be shared on the GRCA website and social media as work progresses.
Help Prevent Wildfires By Exercising Added Caution
The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) would like to remind visitors to take steps to help prevent fires and respect burn bans / restrictions.
Check with your local municipality for updates, as well as burning bylaws / restrictions. Due to the ongoing dry conditions, local communities and visitors must do what they can to prevent fires from starting locally.
Sources of open flame never permitted on GRCA property: Under the Conservation Authorities Act, both residents and visitors are reminded that open flames, campfires, barbecues, fireworks and other sources of fire are not permitted on GRCA properties, Conservation Areas or in the Ganaraska Forest at any time.
Rain Barrel Sale 2025: Conserve Water & Save Costs At Home
Sale Has Ended For 2025: This sale is available for a limited time, so act fast and order before June 16th! 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/Ganaraska and view available products at the bottom of the page. Order before June 16th to receive a discount* on each barrel, to be delivered directly to you.
Ganaraska Forest Trails Opened For the Season On May 1st
The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) is set to open the Ganaraska Forest trails for the season on Thursday, May 1st, 2025, for users with a valid day pass or membership. Updates to the Ganaraska Conservation Online Store: In an effort to streamline the sign-up process, new users and those renewing will now receive their member card / day pass and parking pass attached to the purchase confirmation email received from the online store. The design of the parking pass has changed but any valid parking pass will be accepted. Ganaraska Forest Trails Update: Please exercise caution on trails, as there are still trail blockages and debris throughout the Forest after the ice storms and severe weather earlier in April. GRCA staff continue to work to clear Ganaraska Forest trails, when weather and ground conditions permit.
Ganaraska Conservation Spring Newsletter 2025
Read about exciting news and upcoming events, as well as other important information from Ganaraska Conservation. Consider signing-up to receive our email newsletter when it releases.
Ganaraska Forest Hunting Reminders
With turkey season opening on April 25th, 2025, 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.
Upcoming Military Training Exercise Will Include Portions of West Ganaraska Forest
Northumberland County is preparing to welcome approximately 800 members of the Canadian Armed Forces for a planned emergency training exercise taking place on April 25–27, 2025. Part of the military training will take place in the West Ganaraska Forest, where the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority (GRCA) will be closing a section of the West Forest from April 25–27. For the safety of both Forest users and the participants in the training exercise, the Ganaraska Forest Trails Map will include the closed area that is included as a graphic with this post.
Fishing Season Opens April 26, 2025
With the spring fishing season opening on April 26, 2025, 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 in preparation for Highway 401 expansion work.
Ganaraska Forest Trails to Reopen to Hiking & Hunting on April 18th, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, April 11, 2025 (Port Hope, ON) – Ganaraska Forest trails will reopen to Hiking and Hunting on April 18th, 2025*, ahead of the larger opening to all recreational uses on May 1st. Please exercise caution on trails, as there are still trail blockages and debris throughout the Forest. GRCA staff continue to work to clear Ganaraska Forest trails, when weather and ground conditions permit.