City Encourages Temporary Water Conservation During Wet Weather Events

Peterborough, ON – With snowmelt following a winter with substantial snow accumulation and heavy rainfall in the forecast for Wednesday, March 11, 2026, residents are encouraged to temporarily reduce non-essential water use to help lower the volume of water going to the City of Peterborough Wastewater Treatment Plant. 

Heavy rainfall and spring snowmelt can significantly increase the amount of water entering the municipal wastewater system, placing additional pressure on sewer infrastructure during wet weather events.  

The Wastewater Treatment Plant is experiencing higher-than-normal flows of water into the facility for treatment. It is operating within capacity and treatment is taking place as expected. 

During major wet weather events, rainwater and melting snow can reach the sanitary sewer through foundation drains, cracks in pipes and improperly connected sump pumps or downspouts. This additional flow, known as inflow and infiltration, adds to the volume that must be carried and treated. 

To help manage these temporary increases, residents are encouraged to reduce non-essential water use for short periods during significant rainfall or snowmelt events. When many households take simple steps to limit indoor water use, these actions help lower peak flows and reduce pressure on sewer pipes and pumping stations during extreme conditions. 

Residents can assist by delaying laundry and dishwasher use, taking shorter showers, avoiding full bathtub fills, and turning off taps when not in use. Homeowners can also help reduce stormwater entering the sanitary system by ensuring sump pumps discharge outside, keeping downspouts disconnected from sanitary sewers, and directing roof drainage away from foundations. 

These actions help reduce pressure on the wastewater system during wet weather periods. 

For more information on water conservation during weather events visit peterborough.ca/conservewater.