Augusta Township: Partial Burn Ban Remains in Place

Augusta Township – We have received a few inquiries regarding the current partial burn ban, which remains in effect and permits campfires only.

While many lawns appear green, much of the surrounding vegetation remains extremely dry or dead due to ongoing drought conditions. Most of Eastern Ontario is currently under a Level 3 low water advisory, meaning water levels and flows are critically low. The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority recently noted that Kemptville Creek— which runs through the northern part of Augusta Township— is experiencing its lowest sustained flows on record since 1969.

It’s important to remember that Augusta Township does not have pressurized fire hydrants. Augusta Fire Rescue relies on natural water sources such as creeks and ponds for fire suppression. Many of these sources are now too low to use effectively, and in some cases, once water is drawn, it is not being replenished from upstream.

This will severely limit our ability to obtain water promptly, causing us to travel long distances to access water from municipal hydrants in Brockville or Prescott.

Attached are some pictures showing the conditions of local water sources.

Because much vegetation remains dry or dead and available water for firefighting is limited, the partial burn ban—allowing campfires only—will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Residents are reminded that yard waste, such as leaves and branches, can be taken to the waste transfer site on Coville Road free of charge for proper disposal. We understand that this may be frustrating for some residents, and we truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Our top priority is the safety of our community, our firefighters, and your property. We remain hopeful that significant rainfall in the near future will allow us to lift the current restrictions.