The IJC has been directing dam operations to control water levels in Namakan and Rainy Lake since 1949, and one thing has become clear over the years: It’s difficult to come up with water level targets that are optimal for everybody.
Water Levels and Flows
Forecasting agencies in the United States and Canada expect Great Lakes water levels to remain near or above their long-term average for the next six months.
The International Rainy-Lake of the Woods Watershed Board (IRLWWB) will meet with the public in Kenora, Ont. on August 10 to discuss issues related to the management of water quality and water levels in the 70,000 square-kilometer (27,000 square-mile) drainage basin.
Since August of 2015, the 2000 Rule Curves that are used to regulate water levels on Rainy and Namakan Lakes have been under review.
Wondering why water levels near you seem higher than normal this spring? Indeed, across most of the Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River system, water levels have been above their long-term average (calculated from records dating from 1918), largely the result of the mild, wet weather experienced…
The IJC is responsible for regulating outflows from Lake Superior and Lake Ontario affecting water levels and flows in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
The Water Levels Committee (WLC) of the International Rainy – Lake of the Woods Watershed Board is monitoring recent wet weather and forecasts, noting rises in water levels of lakes and rivers in the watershed.
To assess progress toward improving water quality, scientists use ecosystem indicators to measure whether things are getting better, worse, or staying the same.
Thanks to the annual installation of an ice boom for the winter, large masses of ice are kept from flowing down the Niagara River, protecting property, the shoreline, and preventing water intakes from jamming at hydroelectric plants.
Thanks to the annual installation of an ice boom for the winter, large masses of ice are kept from flowing down the Niagara River, protecting property, the shoreline, and preventing water intakes from jamming at hydroelectric plants.