Canoe Race update: low water levels and sunny conditions to prevail

Organizers of the annual Raisin River Canoe Race had been hoping for some rain, but the drizzle Saturday morning did little to improve water levels on the river. Since the last steady rain 10 days ago, water levels have been steadily dropping. While on Tuesday, the flow rate was measured at 230 cubic feet per second, by Thursday it had dropped to 171, and on Sunday for race day, it is expected to be even lower.  By contrast, the event last year saw near-record levels, with a flow rate measured in excess of 1200.

Paddlers will be advised that due to the low water levels, there will be areas in the river where they may need to get out of the canoes or kayaks and walk.  Rocks will be a prevalent hazard, especially at the three sets of rapids.  However, Josianne Sabourin of the Raisin Region Conservation Authority says the dam at Martintown should be okay for those who choose to jump it.  Portaging, of course, remains an option, though for many spectators, the splashes and spills at the dam are the highlight of the event.

Sabourin has also confirmed the race will run the full distance from St. Andrew's West to Williamstown.  Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. Sunday at the school in St. Andrew's, with breakfast available across the street at the church hall.  The first boats will take to the water at 10:30 a.m.

As for the latest forecast on conditions aside from the low water levels, Environment Canada predicts sun and a high of 14 C.