Canadian Rivers' Day 2008: Blame it on the rain

As the saying goes: April showers bring May flowers. The importance of Spring rains doesn’t end there.

As you have most likely noticed, the unusually dry weather this Spring has allowed most to get out and enjoy the sunshine but it has also created unseasonably low flow levels in Winnipeg’s rivers, and the Seine is no exception.

While these reduced levels on the Red and Assiniboine Rivers have allowed for an early launch of the Paddlewheel boats as well as riverwalk access, its impacts on the Seine River are much more concerning.

According to Environment Canada, historically the average precipitation for Winnipeg for the month of April is near 36mm while this April we received only 9mm which is far too little precipitation to quench the Seine’s thirst.

Like all rivers the Seine relies on the annual spring flush to raise its water levels, flush its banks, deposit nutrient-rich silt, and provide adequate water levels throughout the summer months which are generally drier.

Alf  Warkentin, from the office of the Minister of Water Stewardship informed Save Our Seine that the decision had been made in early May to temporarily allow for increased water flows into the Seine at the St. Anne diversion. While the rain that we received in mid-May did increase these flows, they will likely only be short-lived.

So what does this all mean? Well, unfortunately these low flows have prompted some changes to the Annual Save Our Seine Canadian Rivers’ Day celebration. The actual canoe paddle down the Seine will not be possible but Save Our Seine has planned the family-friendly planting event at Vermette Park as a great alternative to Canadian Rivers’ Day.

Come out and:

• plant a tree
• support Save Our Seine
• enjoy a BBQ
• meet new friends
• get involved
• learn about Métis culture

REMEMBER to bring sunscreen, a hat, gloves, a shovel, your friends and family and a great attitude!

See you on JULY 26th!!!

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