Norfolk County provides update on Waterford Ponds investigation

Norfolk County is updating residents on its ongoing efforts to investigate and address low water levels at the Waterford Ponds. 

Over the past several weeks, County staff have been working to determine whether the dam was the cause of the low water levels in the ponds. An engineering consultant inspected the dam, bypass pipe, and the water control structure for signs of failures or leakage.  

The results show no major structural failures or leakage issues. Based on this assessment, the County can confirm the dam is not contributing to the low water levels. The dam's water control systems are operating normally. Part of the system remains partially open, as designed, to ensure water continues flowing in Nanticoke Creek below the dam. 

Low water levels are being observed across the County. Norfolk County and the broader Long Point Region Watershed remain under a Level 1 Low Water Advisory. Below-normal precipitation, seasonal temperature increases, and ongoing irrigation demands are all contributing to these conditions.  

County staff are now focused on improving water flow into the ponds by addressing debris accumulation and beaver activity in multiple locations upstream of the dam. This work may take several weeks to complete. Given the nature of the work and safety considerations in and around the watercourses, Norfolk County is asking residents to respect the work zones to allow staff to complete this work. If we see increased precipitation this fall, it should improve water levels across the region. 

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