Lake Michigan-Huron is 8 inches higher than it was at this time last year.
Compared to last month:
Lake Superior: Down 1″
Lake Michigan-Huron: Down 2″
Lake St. Clair: Down 1″
Lake Erie: Down 3″
Lake Ontario: Down 4″
Compared to last year:
Lake Superior: Same
Lake Michigan-Huron: Up 8″
Lake St. Clair: Up 6″
Lake Erie: Up 5″
Lake Ontario: Up 18″
Long-Term September Averages: Most of the lakes remain above their long-term September averages (Michigan-Huron +1″, St. Clair +7″, Erie +6″, Ontario +18″), though well below record highs. Lake Superior is currently 1″ below its long-term September average.
One-Month Forecast: Levels on Lake Superior (-1″), Lake Michigan-Huron (-2″), St. Clair (-6″), Erie (-4″), and Ontario (-9″) are expected to decline.
Lake Superior’s outflow through the St. Marys River, Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow through the St. Clair River, and Lake St. Clair’s outflow through the Detroit River are projected to be near average in September. Lake Erie’s outflow through the Niagara River and Lake Ontario’s outflow through the St. Lawrence River are projected to be above average in September.
This report below shows the most recent month of precipitation and outflows published by Level News:
With regard to the forecast graph below (and the more recently updated first graph in this report), the USACE predicts that Lake Michigan-Huron levels will likely drop from August through January.
Monthly mean water levels for the previous year and the current year to date are shown as a solid line on the hydrographs. A projection for the next six months is given as a dashed line. This projection is based on the present condition of the lake basin and anticipated future weather. The shaded area shows a range of possible levels over the next six months dependent upon weather variations. Current and projected levels (solid and dashed lines) can be compared with the 1918-2021 average levels (dotted line) and extreme levels (shown as bars with their year of occurrence). The legend below further identifies the information on the hydrographs.
Lake Michigan-Huron is 7 inches higher than it was at this time last year.
Compared to last month:
Lake Superior: Same
Lake Michigan-Huron: Down 2″
Lake St. Clair: Down 2″
Lake Erie: Down 2″
Lake Ontario: Down 5″
Compared to last year:
Lake Superior: Up 1″
Lake Michigan-Huron: Up 7″
Lake St. Clair: Up 6″
Lake Erie: Up 5″
Lake Ontario: Up 17″
Long-Term September Averages: Most of the lakes remain above their long-term September averages (Michigan-Huron +2″, St. Clair +7″, Erie +7″, Ontario +19″), though well below record highs. Lake Superior is currently 2″ below its long-term September average.
One-Month Forecast: Lake Superior levels are projected to stay the same. Levels on Lake Michigan-Huron (-2″), St. Clair (-5″), Erie (-5″), and Ontario (-9″) are expected to decline.
Lake Superior’s outflow through the St. Marys River, Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow through the St. Clair River, and Lake St. Clair’s outflow through the Detroit River are projected to be near average in September. Lake Erie’s outflow through the Niagara River and Lake Ontario’s outflow through the St. Lawrence River are projected to be above average in September.
This report below shows the most recent month of precipitation and outflows published by Level News:
With regard to the forecast graph below (and the more recently updated first graph in this report), the USACE predicts that Lake Michigan-Huron levels will likely drop from August through January.
Monthly mean water levels for the previous year and the current year to date are shown as a solid line on the hydrographs. A projection for the next six months is given as a dashed line. This projection is based on the present condition of the lake basin and anticipated future weather. The shaded area shows a range of possible levels over the next six months dependent upon weather variations. Current and projected levels (solid and dashed lines) can be compared with the 1918-2021 average levels (dotted line) and extreme levels (shown as bars with their year of occurrence). The legend below further identifies the information on the hydrographs.
The 2026 Carling municipal election is coming up, and a new website is available to help residents get informed and vote. Get Out the Vote Carling provides information about the candidates, their responses to the same questions, and practical information about how to vote — including important dates, voter registration and PIN information. Carling is using internet and telephone voting this year, with voting open from October 14 until 8:00 p.m. on October 26. The site is a volunteer initiative, is not affiliated with the Township of Carling, and does not endorse any candidates. Visit Get Out the Vote Carling For official election information, including voter registration and voting procedures, visit the Township of Carling election page.
Labour Day Long Weekend coming up, please note the following Waste Site hours: Saturday, September 5th • Carling Waste Site: Open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. • Killbear Waste Site: Open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, September 6th • Carling Waste Site: Closed • Killbear Waste Site: Open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday, September 7th • Carling Waste Site: Open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. • Killbear Waste Site: Closed
Lake Michigan-Huron is 6 inches higher than it was at this time last year.
Compared to last month:
Lake Superior: Up 1″
Lake Michigan-Huron: Down 1″
Lake St. Clair: Down 3″
Lake Erie: Down 2″
Lake Ontario: Down 2″
Compared to last year:
Lake Superior: Same
Lake Michigan-Huron: Up 6″
Lake St. Clair: Up 2″
Lake Erie: Up 1″
Lake Ontario: Up 17″
Long-Term August Averages: Most of the lakes remain above their long-term August averages (Michigan-Huron +1″, St. Clair +5″, Erie +5″, Ontario +16″), though well below record highs. Lake Superior is currently 2″ below its long-term August average.
One-Month Forecast: Lake Superior levels are projected to stay the same. Levels on Lake Michigan-Huron (-2″), St. Clair (-3″), Erie (-4″), and Ontario (-8″) are expected to decline.
Lake Superior’s outflow through the St. Marys River is projected to be near average in August. Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow through the St. Clair River and Lake St. Clair’s outflow through the Detroit River are projected to be near average, and Lake Erie’s outflow through the Niagara River and Lake Ontario’s outflow through the St. Lawrence River are projected to be above average in August.
This report below shows the most recent month of precipitation and outflows published by Level News:
With regard to the forecast graph below (and the more recently updated first graph in this report), the USACE predicts that Lake Michigan-Huron levels will likely drop from August through January.
Monthly mean water levels for the previous year and the current year to date are shown as a solid line on the hydrographs. A projection for the next six months is given as a dashed line. This projection is based on the present condition of the lake basin and anticipated future weather. The shaded area shows a range of possible levels over the next six months dependent upon weather variations. Current and projected levels (solid and dashed lines) can be compared with the 1918-2021 average levels (dotted line) and extreme levels (shown as bars with their year of occurrence). The legend below further identifies the information on the hydrographs.
A few stray drops of fuel or a splash of soapy water off the deck might not seem like much on its own, but when hundreds of boats share the same waterways, the cumulative impact builds. A minor fuel spill creates a surprisingly large slick that can starve marine life of oxygen and persist in shoreline sediments. Household cleaners containing phosphates and ammonia can wash off hulls into sheltered bays, altering water chemistry and fueling harmful algal blooms. Because this stress lands directly in the waters where we swim, dock, and fish, simple tweaks to how we maintain our boats can make a noticeable difference.
What is the Clean Marine Program?
Developed in 1995 by Boating Ontario, the Clean Marine Eco-Rating Program is a voluntary framework for marinas, yacht clubs, and marine dealers to follow best environmental practices to reduce and prevent water, air and land pollution associated with recreational boating activities. Since the program’s inception, over 300 businesses have participated.
How it Works
Participating marinas undergo an independent, 220-point assessment (evaluating things like spill prevention, hazardous waste disposal, emergency response, and site runoff management). Facilities earn ratings from Bronze to Diamond Elite based on their audit performance. Marinas complete annual self-assessments and undergo formal re-audits every four years to retain their certification.
When you see the Clean Marine Flag flying at a dock, it serves as your assurance that the facility operates under world-class environmental management standards. Over 40 marinas around Georgian Bay meet these high standards.
Habits for Greener Boating
While certified marinas manage ground runoff and commercial waste, preventing direct water contamination requires conscious choices aboard your vessel.
Drip-Free Refueling & Bilge Care:
Avoid overfilling your fuel tank—always leave 10% room for fuel expansion in the summer heat
Hold a fuel-absorbent collar or pad around the nozzle while filling to catch stray drips before they reach the basin
Place an oil-absorbent pad or “bilge sock” in your bilge to trap fuel, oil, and hydraulic fluid before automatic bilge pumps discharge water overboard
Eco-Friendly Products & Waste Management:
Switch to marine-safe, biodegradeable soaps and avoid conventional cleaners with phosphates, ammonia, or chlorine
Swap single-use food storage for reusable silicone bags, glass containers, or beeswax wraps and secure garbage and recycling containers with tight lids so light plastics don’t blow overboard
Take used engine oil, filters, batteries, and leftover paint to designated hazardous waste collection areas at your local marina
Always empty holding tanks at designated marina pump-out stations rather than discharging into open water
When winterizing engines and freshwater lines, choose non-toxic, USP-grade propylene glycol (pink antifreeze) over toxic ethylene glycol so spring startup doesn’t flush toxins into the water
Respect Shorelines and Wildlife
Observe posted speed limits and reduce your wake near shallow bays, marshes, and natural shorelines to prevent bank erosion and protect waterfowl nesting grounds
Choose sandy or muddy bottoms when dropping anchor rather than dragging ground tackle through fragile aquatic vegetation or fish spawning beds
Consider adding flexible solar panels to charge onboard house batteries or run small electronics, reducing engine idling and generator fuel use
Clean, Drain and Dry
Before transporting your vessel between water bodies clean all aquatic plants and mud off your hull, trailer, and gear, drain bilges, livewells, and bait buckets on dry land to prevent transferring invasive species between waterways
Get tips safe refuelling tips here and read more about Boating Ontario’s Clean Marine Program here.
Late-summer weather on Georgian Bay can shift in a flash, turning smooth, glassy water into dangerous chop. Adding to the volatility this season, meteorologists are tracking a rapidly strengthening El Niño pattern, which is driving a more active jet stream and creating sharp clash zones between hot, humid air and cool northern winds across Ontario. These unstable conditions can trigger fast-moving, high-intensity storms across open water. Environment Canada routinely issues marine weather alerts, but knowing how to react to the exact terminology can keep you and your crew out of harm’s way. Decoding Marine Weather Alerts Watch vs. Warning: Watch (Be Prepared): Issued when conditions are favourable for severe weather to develop—review your route, secure loose gear, check lifejackets, and keep eyes on the horizon. Warning (Take Action): Severe weather is imminent or actively occurring—seek safe harbour immediately. Strong Wind Warning: Issued for forecast winds between 20 to 33 knots (37–61 km/h) during the boating season. Small craft will face heavy drift and steep, short-period waves. Squall Watch / Warning: Issued when sudden, violent wind gusts exceeding 34 knots (63+ km/h) are possible or observed. These are often tied to fast-moving thunderstorms. Squalls cause sudden wave spikes and blinding rain—get off open water before the shelf cloud arrives. Gale Warning: Issued for sustained winds of 34 to 47 knots (63–87 km/h). Hazardous conditions for virtually all recreational vessels. Waterspout Watch: Issued most commonly in late summer and early fall when cool, unstable air over warmer water creates conditions where cold-air waterspouts can form. Never try to navigate close to a waterspout; alter your course at a 90-degree angle to its track. Where to Tune In for Marine Weather Forecasts Environment Canada permanently decommissioned the analog Weatheradio network (WX1–WX7) earlier this year. If you hit the “WX” button on your radio, you will only hear static—but the Coast Guard’s channels remain fully active: Canadian Coast Guard Continuous Marine Broadcasts: Manually tune your marine VHF radio to Channels 21B, 23B, 25B, 28B, or 83B (depending on your location along the Bay) for 24/7 marine updates. Digital Alternatives: Monitor Environment Canada’s WeatherCAN app or check weather.gc.ca/marine (search for Northern or Southern Georgian Bay depending on your location). Avoid municipal land forecasts, as they do not list wave heights or open-water surface wind speeds—and remember to check the app manually, as WeatherCAN currenly does not send push notifications for marine-specific warnings. While out on the water, make sure you keep on top of the weather conditions. Tune your marine radio to a Coast Guard broadcast channel, make a habit of actively checking Marine Forecasts on your app, and watch for falling barometers or sudden wind shifts, so you can make the call to head in early if the weather takes a turn.
Lake Michigan-Huron is 6 inches higher than it was at this time last year.
Compared to last month:
Lake Superior: Up 1″
Lake Michigan-Huron: Down 1″
Lake St. Clair: Down 3″
Lake Erie: Down 2″
Lake Ontario: Down 2″
Compared to last year:
Lake Superior: Same
Lake Michigan-Huron: Up 6″
Lake St. Clair: Up 2″
Lake Erie: Up 1″
Lake Ontario: Up 17″
Long-Term August Averages: Most of the lakes remain above their long-term August averages (Michigan-Huron +1″, St. Clair +5″, Erie +5″, Ontario +16″), though well below record highs. Lake Superior is currently 2″ below its long-term August average.
One-Month Forecast: Lake Superior levels are projected to stay the same. Levels on Lake Michigan-Huron (-2″), St. Clair (-3″), Erie (-4″), and Ontario (-8″) are expected to decline.
Lake Superior’s outflow through the St. Marys River is projected to be near average in August. Lake Michigan-Huron’s outflow through the St. Clair River and Lake St. Clair’s outflow through the Detroit River are projected to be near average, and Lake Erie’s outflow through the Niagara River and Lake Ontario’s outflow through the St. Lawrence River are projected to be above average in August.
This report below shows the most recent month of precipitation and outflows published by Level News:
With regard to the forecast graph below (and the more recently updated first graph in this report), the USACE predicts that Lake Michigan-Huron levels will likely drop from August through January.
Monthly mean water levels for the previous year and the current year to date are shown as a solid line on the hydrographs. A projection for the next six months is given as a dashed line. This projection is based on the present condition of the lake basin and anticipated future weather. The shaded area shows a range of possible levels over the next six months dependent upon weather variations. Current and projected levels (solid and dashed lines) can be compared with the 1918-2021 average levels (dotted line) and extreme levels (shown as bars with their year of occurrence). The legend below further identifies the information on the hydrographs.