What's the reason why CaRT have taken to giving notice of closures a little into the future? asks Victor.
Quite simple, as they explained on at least one of the notices., writes Mike Todd.
With quite complex water management software, CaRT are better able to predict when water supplies, including but not limited to reservoirs, will reach a level that cannot sustain safe boating as well as having thought for the needs of wildlife etc.
As a result they can estimate a date a couple of weeks ahead and, since in many cases this impacts on many boaters overall cruising plans, good warning is to be appreciated so that boaters can attempt to ensure that they are not blocked in (may be indefinitely) or unable to reach a destination.
Of course, such estimates can be impacted by thoughtless behaviour when gates and paddles are left open contrary to specific requests to the contrary. Whole flights have been drained and re-filling them takes resources—water and time—both of which are scarce.
In general, it does seem that boaters have made good use of the advance warnings - we, for example, know that we will not be able to return to Cropredy for some while and have to plan accordingly. Marinas are trying whenever they can to be accommodating to those who cannot access their already-paid-for home moorings.
Rather than being something suspicious, this is at least one example where CaRT are seeking to use modern technology to improve the information given to users. It may also help, having a larger picture, to avoid local bank staff running significant quantities of water when it is known that it will not achieve much in return.