CBC News - Low water conditions in New Brunswick concern experts
“Groundwater levels at eastern and southeastern monitoring sites are well below normal with groundwater levels at all monitoring sites throughout New Brunswick decreasing”
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This article from CBC News highlights growing concern in New Brunswick over declining groundwater and surface water levels amid prolonged dry weather and extreme heat. The Department of Environment and Climate Change has warned that without significant rainfall, water resources will continue to diminish, urging residents across the province to conserve water wherever possible.
Experts note that the St. John River (Wolastoq) is among the bodies of water affected. Colin Forsythe, executive director of the St. John River Society, said warming water temperatures and reduced replenishment from snowpack and groundwater are stressing ecosystems, particularly cold-water fish species like salmon and trout.
Some municipalities are already taking action. In Eastern Charlotte, a water conservation order has been issued to limit non-essential uses like lawn sprinklers and car washing, with priority given to ensuring enough supply for fire response. Residents are beginning to see the effects in daily life, with visible signs of dryness such as yellowing leaves in midsummer.
Researchers caution that this is part of a broader climate trend. Anthony Taylor, an associate professor at the University of New Brunswick, points to rising temperatures and persistent precipitation deficits as clear indicators of climate change at work in the province.
As conditions in New Brunswick shift, proactive water management and planning will be essential. National-scale initiatives like the Canada1Water project (C1W) play a key role in this effort, offering integrated hydrological and climate data to better track drought impacts, forecast future risks, and inform long-term water management strategies. By combining local action with large-scale monitoring and modelling, Canada can build resilience against increasing drought pressures in provinces like New Brunswick.