IJC will increase outflows from Lake Ontario before spring peak

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 18 February 2021 at 10:21 am

The International Joint Commission plans to increase outflows from Lake Ontario until the spring peak, a proactive move to try to prevent flooding, the organization said.

The IJC intends to exceed the outflows set in Plan 2014, its lake water level management plan. The lake levels are down 3 inches in the past month and 22 inches lower than the level a year ago.

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) said he supports the IJC’s decision to increase outflows from Lake Ontario.

“Severe flooding has been devastating to our communities along Lake Ontario,” Jacobs said in a statement. “Small businesses and homeowners have suffered major damage to property, structures, and facilities for several years – ensuring we are doing everything possible to mitigate the threat of flooding is critical. I am proud to have successfully advocated for increased outflows to better protect our lakeshore communities, and I will continue my tireless effort to support their well-being and prosperity.”