Surface water and groundwater levels are lower than normal throughout the province, which is why New Brunswickers are advised to conserve water.

“The heat wave, coupled with low precipitation over several weeks, has affected water levels throughout New Brunswick, especially in the southeastern portion of the province,” said Environment and Local Government Minister Jeff Carr. “Even though there has been some rain recently, a slow steady rainfall over a period of days is needed to help improve low water levels.”

At the end of June, stream-flow amounts for most of the province were below normal. With July, August, and September typically being low-flow months, there is even more reason to conserve water now.

“We often take water for granted because New Brunswick is fortunate to have so many sources of clean water,” said Carr. “But everyone should be thinking about how they can reduce water use whether they are on a private well or on a municipal system.”

The Department of Environment and Local Government suggests the following ways for residents to conserve water:

  • avoid washing vehicles;
  • avoid watering lawns;
  • avoid filling swimming pools;
  • use washing machines and dishwashers less frequently and with full loads only;
  • take quick showers to minimize water used for washing;
  • consider plumbing alterations, such as installing low-flow faucets; and
  • check for leaks in plumbing systems, such as leaking faucets and toilets, and repair as necessary.

For updates on water levels in the province, visit the New Brunswick Water Quantity Information website. This site is updated monthly and contains summaries of precipitation, stream-flow runoff and groundwater levels.

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