March 6, 2026 Streams and Rivers Hazardous as Spring Freshet Arrives The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects most of the remaining snow in the Upper Thames River watershed to melt this weekend, due to the warm temperatures, rain already received, and rain in the forecast. Local streams and rivers have been rising throughout the week, with temperatures above freezing most days and 5-20 mm of precipitation measured. [...]

For Immediate Release  March 5, 2026 UTRCA’s Tree Power returns to Thames Centre!  The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA)’s Tree Power program is returning to Thames Centre for a second year. This popular program provides watershed residents with affordable native hardwood trees through partnerships with UTRCA municipalities and sponsors.    “I helped residents load trees into their cars last year, and I was very impressed by the turnout,” says Thames Centre Councillor Danielle Lockie. “Tree planting is one [...]

March 4, 2026 Conservation Authority urges caution around Streams and Rivers The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects this week’s warmer temperatures and rain will melt most of the snowpack and raise water levels in local rivers and streams. Everyone is reminded to use extra caution and avoid waterways and flooded areas. UTRCA staff conducted a snow survey on Monday, March 2, which reported an average of 50-70 mm of water content in the northern portion of the watershed, [...]

For Immediate Release  UTRCA’s West Perth Tree Power program Returns for Third Year   The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) has once again partnered with the Municipality of West Perth to host the third West Perth Tree Power this spring! This popular program provides watershed residents with affordable native trees through partnerships with UTRCA municipalities and sponsors.     “We’re glad that the Tree Power program has been so well received in West Perth. It’s a great way to get more trees planted thanks to our partnership [...]

For Immediate Release   February 26, 2026 Festival Hydro Tree Power is back!  The popular Festival Hydro Tree Power program has returned, providing Stratford residents with affordable native trees. Sales open on the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s (UTRCA) website on Monday, March 2nd at 9:00 am. Ten different species will be available including: American Sycamore, Basswood, Bur Oak, Hackberry, Paper Birch, Red Oak, Sugar Maple, Tulip, White Spruce and White Pine trees.  “As we work to achieve the goals of [...]

February 26, 2026  For Immediate Release  London Hydro Tree Power Program Returns for 14th Year London Hydro and the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) have once again partnered for the 14th year of the Tree Power program. The program was initiated by the late Bill Kunz, a London Hydro employee who approached the UTRCA in 2012 with the idea of making native trees available and affordable for residents of London via London Hydro sponsorship. Over the [...]

For Immediate Release February 25, 2026  UTRCA Honours Recipients of 2026 Conservation Awards  The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Conservation Awards, recognizing exceptional contributions to community engagement and environmental stewardship.  This year’s Outstanding Resident Award was presented posthumously to Diane Irving to honour her many years of volunteer service and commitment to supporting community events.  For nearly 20 years, Diane was a familiar and welcoming presence at the UTRCA’s Children’s Water [...]

February 20, 2025 Caution Advised as Streams and Rivers Continue to Rise The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) reports local streams and rivers are continuing to rise and will stay high over the weekend and early next week, with water spilling into low lying floodplain areas that typically flood in the spring. The UTRCA reminds everyone to use extreme caution near all streams, rivers, ditches, and ponds. Stream banks may be slippery and unstable, and the water is very cold and fast-moving. Any ice [...]