News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The River Watch 2016 spring freshet operations have come to an end.

“We were fortunate again this year to have the freshet season pass without an emergency or disastrous event,” said Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Stephen Horsman. “However I urge residents not to become complacent. The recent event in Fort McMurray, Alta., proves just how quickly an emergency can arise and how devastating it can be. I strongly encourage New Brunswickers to always be prepared and to be aware of potential dangers.”

Water levels have returned to normal throughout New Brunswick following a spring freshet season dominated by favourable temperatures and limited precipitation.

The snow pack and ice thickness were categorized as below normal in 2016, which also contributed to a relatively uneventful spring melt season.

During the eight-week operation, the River Watch team monitored a number of ice jams and ice runs on the St. John, Tobique, Nashwaak, Southwest Miramichi, Middle and Restigouche rivers. None of these ice jams materialized into scenarios of concern for the province.

“I thank all River Watch partners and volunteers who worked diligently throughout the freshet season,” said Horsman. “This continued collaboration helps make New Brunswick a safer place to live. Active monitoring has ended, but the River Watch program continues throughout the year and will provide river forecasting as required during heavy rainfall events.”

Horsman also encouraged New Brunswickers to have an emergency kit and an evacuation plan ready at all times. Information on emergency preparedness for families is available online.