ANTIGONISH: In response to unusually low water levels at the James River Dam, the Town of Antigonish announced the initiation of Voluntary Water Conservation Measures for all town and fringe-area water utility customers as of July 17.
Recent dry conditions have significantly reduced the dam’s flow – officials confirmed that the dam is nearly one metre below its optimal level, triggering a precautionary conservation stage.
Mayor Sean Cameron noted that it is “concerning to see these conditions this early in the year” – a trend usually seen in late summer or early fall. With the forecast predicting continued dry weather, the town deems it prudent to act pre-emptively and avoid stricter measures.
The voluntary conservation notice, distributed via the town website, social media, and local radio, encourages residents to curb non-essential water use such as watering lawns, trees, gardens, and flower beds; washing vehicles, driveways, and sidewalks; filling pools, and taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and reducing indoor consumption.
Fact sheets distributed by the town reveal that outdoor water usage accounts for nearly one-third of household consumption – highlighting the impact of small changes.
The town emphasized that mandatory conservation orders will be considered only if the dam’s water dips to critical levels – specifically when fire protection could be compromised. Town staff continue to closely monitor dam levels, watershed health, and weather patterns in partnership with the Municipality of the County of Antigonish.
Mayor Cameron added that without substantial rainfall within 10 days, the town might be forced into a mandatory regime.
Looking ahead, the town and county are collaborating on a future expansion of water supply options. Funding has been secured to explore supplementary sources to support the James River system during prolonged droughts.
This voluntary initiative reflects Antigonish’s proactive and community-based approach to resource stewardship. By urging residents to make modest adjustments now, the town aims to maintain adequate water reserves and potentially avoid reaching mandatory conservation.