WELLINGTON COUNTY – The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is concerned about the use of frozen natural water bodies for on-ice activities such as skating and ice fishing.
Cold temperatures and early-season snowfall have resulted in the formation of thin ice on local rivers, reservoirs, ponds and lakes across the watershed.
While ice may appear to be forming earlier than in previous years, ice conditions remain highly unstable, unpredictable and unsafe for any type of recreation, officials say.
River systems, reservoirs and water control structures experience fluctuating water levels and variable flows that prevent stable ice formation.
While colder temperatures allow for some ice formation, daily changes in temperature, wind, precipitation and underwater currents greatly affect ice conditions.
In many areas, snow cover can also insulate the ice surface, slowing the freezing process and creating hidden weak spots.
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways and is strongly advised to stay off all ice at this time.
Parents and caregivers are urged to keep children and pets away from shorelines and off frozen surfaces, as conditions can change quickly.
Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard.
Recreational users near local waterways should be aware of the current conditions and exercise additional caution.
Select Grand River Conservation Areas, including Belwood Lake, Guelph Lake, Pinehurst Lake and Shade’s Mills are monitoring ice conditions and will offer ice fishing if conditions permit.
For up-to-date status of winter activities in Grand River Conservation Areas, visit grandriver.ca/activitystatus.
Many watershed municipalities provide safe outdoor skating and recreation options. Visit local municipal websites for more details.
Receive GRCA flood messages by email at grandriver.ca.
Follow flood messages on Twitter at @grca_flood_msg.
