by Chris Riddle, TSW Liaison for KLCOA and co-chair of CEWF

The water level on the Kennisis Lakes is controlled by a Trent Severn Waterway (TSW) dam where the outflow from our lakes feeds the Kennisis and then the Gull rivers. As a Member of the Coalition for Equitable Water Flow (CEWF), the KLCOA has been invited to identify challenges facing KLCOA members due to the water management practices of the TSW. In particular, we have been asked to identify problems related to flooding, water access and safe navigation resulting from water level fluctuations.

CEWF is promoting the concept of a lake-specific Preferred Water Level Range during the principal navigation season from mid-May to mid-September. A consultation document that includes details of proposed preferred levels for the Kennisis Lakes is available for review (see link below).

With the help of data collected by Doug Lenart, we have focused on the ability to safely navigate between the main lake and Little Kennisis Lake as well as Paddys Bay. This is not the only issue of concern, but it can be quantified with measurable data and solving this issue would also solve other problems. The data collected includes a profile of the navigable channels under the bridges as well as clearance and draft specifications for the most common boats found on our lakes. This allows us to calculate the range of water levels that allow for safe navigation between the lakes.

As a result of this analysis, it is proposed is that the TSW be requested to manage the water levels on Kennisis Lake between mid-May and mid-September so that:

• The water level not rise above 97% of the full range available for control by the TSW. This is equivalent to a water level that is 4" below the top of the dam with all logs in place. This level is equal to the multi-year average for early June. Ensuring that the water level did not exceed this upper limit would also help to avoid shoreline erosion and flooding of low-lying properties;
• The water level not be allowed to drop below 55% of the TSWs control range. This is equivalent to 51" below the top of the dam. This level is equal to the multi-year average for September 1st. Ensuring that the water level did not fall below this lower limit would allow safe passage between the lakes, reduce the number of navigation hazards, and also reduce the risk of docks being left high and dry in September.

The overall result would see Kennisis Lake drop about four feet over the summer months instead of five to six feet, as happened most recently in 2007.

Assuming that KLCOA members support this approach at the September 2011 AGM, this information will be forwarded to CEWF and combined with similar input from other lakes in the Haliburton region before being tabled for discussion with the TSW.