Protecting our Community and Strengthening our Resilience

Written By David Brown

Spring flooding is once again affecting parts of Ottawa, especially for residents living along the Ottawa River and its tributaries. For many families, this time of year brings real stress and uncertainty, and I want to begin by saying that my thoughts are with everyone who is watching water levels closely, protecting their property, and supporting neighbours through a difficult stretch. Flooding can be unpredictable and exhausting, and I know many residents are feeling that weight right now.

The City’s Emergency Coordination Centre remains activated in response to spring flooding, and crews continue to monitor conditions, support residents, and prepare for any changes in the days ahead. The current forecast for the coming week is more favourable, with no significant rainfall expected, and water levels are anticipated to level off before gradually declining. At the same time, there are often two peaks during the freshet season, so it is still important to remain vigilant and keep protective measures in place.

There has already been a significant response across the city. Ottawa Fire Services has completed more than 200 home visits in areas at greatest risk. Fifteen sandbag filling stations are operating across Ottawa, and volunteers have filled more than 10,000 sandbags, with approximately 30,000 deployed overall. The City has also been supported by several partners, including St. John Ambulance, Team Rubicon, and Ottawa Volunteer Search and Rescue. These efforts have made a real difference for residents trying to prepare and respond as conditions evolve. While current impacts are limited to a relatively small number of road, pathway, and boat launch closures, the City continues to update those closures regularly and has resources in place should conditions worsen.

For residents living near waterways, the City recommends keeping sandbag walls and other protective measures in place for now, especially because a second peak remains possible. It is also important to know your property’s flood plain, understand how flooding may affect your home, and remove vulnerable or hazardous items from low-lying areas where possible. Even for residents who are not directly impacted, this is a good time to check in on friends, family members, and neighbours who may need help preparing their property or accessing sandbags.

It is also a good time for residents to check the condition of the ditches and culverts on or near their property to make sure they are clear and functioning properly. During the spring thaw, blocked or poorly draining ditches and culverts can quickly make local conditions worse by preventing water from flowing away as it should. Clearing debris, leaves, branches, and other obstructions can help reduce the risk of standing water, localized flooding, and damage to nearby roads, driveways, and properties.

In many cases, maintaining private ditches and culverts is the responsibility of the resident or property owner, so this is an important reminder as water levels remain high and ground conditions continue to change. Taking a few moments to inspect these areas and address any blockages can make a real difference, for both your own property and neighbouring homes. As with other flood preparedness measures, small steps taken early can help prevent bigger problems later.

As we respond to the immediate challenge of flooding, this is also an important reminder that long-term resilience matters just as much. That is why I also want to highlight an opportunity now open through the Ottawa Rural Clean Water Program. This program provides funding for projects that protect surface water and groundwater quality, helping rural landowners and farmers make practical improvements that benefit both their property and the broader environment. Landowners completing eligible projects in 2026 may qualify for grants of up to $15,000, and the next application deadline has been extended to May 15, 2026.

This year, the program includes new grants for living snow fences, in addition to support for 18 different project types related to nutrient management, soil protection, water management, land stewardship, and education and innovation. Farmers from both rural and urban Ottawa, along with landowners in rural Ottawa, are eligible to apply. Non-profit organizations may also apply for education and innovation projects. The program is delivered in partnership with the Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, and South Nation Conservation Authorities, along with the City of Ottawa, and it is one of the practical ways we can support healthier waterways and stronger rural landscapes over the long term.

While emergency response is essential during flood season, we also need to keep investing in projects that reduce risk, improve land stewardship, and strengthen our community’s ability to adapt. Supporting rural water protection and improving runoff management are all part of that bigger picture. In moments like this, I think it is especially important to focus not only on the challenges in front of us, but also on the work we can do together to better protect our homes, farms, waterways, and communities in the future.

For residents looking for more information, I encourage you to visit the City’s spring flooding page for updates on conditions, sandbag locations, and road or pathway closures. Rural residents and landowners interested in funding opportunities can learn more about the Ottawa Rural Clean Water Program and apply online through the City’s website.

Helpful links:

David Brown
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