The City of Wrenford is advising residents to stay off the Tamsin River, Corvid Creek, Hollis Creek, and Ambrel Lake until water levels return to normal. Recent heavy rainfall has pushed flows to unsafe levels, and Tamsin Valley Public Health and the Tamsin Valley Conservation Authority are recommending that the public avoid all primary-contact activities in these areas.
Primary-contact activities include swimming, wading, and playing in the water. Secondary-contact activities, such as fishing from the shore or using a non-motorized watercraft like a canoe or kayak, may still be allowed in some areas, but residents should use extreme caution and keep a safe distance from the banks. Fast-moving water can erode riverbanks, hide debris, and sweep people off their feet. Pets should also be kept away from the water's edge, as currents can quickly overwhelm even strong swimmers.
“We know residents love spending time outdoors, but these conditions are unpredictable,” said City Manager Robert Eng. “The safest choice right now is to keep your feet on solid ground and give the water time to settle. If you see someone in trouble, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt a rescue yourself.”
Residents who notice eroded banks, fallen trees blocking pathways, or standing water on trails should report them by calling 311 or visiting the Report a drainage or flooding issue page. If you spot a downed power line near the water, contact your local utility provider directly. In an emergency, always call 911.
The City will continue to monitor water levels and will lift the advisory as soon as Tamsin Valley Public Health and the Conservation Authority confirm it is safe to resume normal water activities. In the meantime, you can still enjoy Wrenford’s outdoors by walking the Tamsin River Trail System well back from the water’s edge, picnicking at Riverside Flats Park, or visiting the Ambrel Lake Park boardwalk.
For ongoing updates on water quality and river conditions, please visit the Water quality reports and monitoring page. You can also sign up for emergency alerts through the City’s notification service to receive real-time updates during high water events. For more information on how the City manages water resources and responds to environmental changes, visit the Water & Wastewater page.