Ottawa Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is providing $11.5 million to upgrade four dams across the province and build stronger, more resilient water control infrastructure.
Construction for the four projects is scheduled to take place over the next four years and will extend the useful service life of each dam for up to 100 years and ensure they continue to meet provincial standards for public safety.
“Strong, reliable dams help keep our waterways safe, protecting families and communities,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Through today’s investment, we are upgrading this essential infrastructure so that these dams continue to meet our high standards and operate safely and effectively for many years to come.”
The four dams being rehabilitated are:
- Ahmic Lake Dam in the Township of Magnetawan
- Blind River Dam in the Town of Blind River
- Graham Lake Dam in the Township of Front of Yonge
- Balaclava Dam in the Township of Greater Madawaska
This new funding builds on the province’s investments in dam infrastructure to protect public safety and brings Ontario’s total investment to more than $100 million to upgrade 20 dams across the province.
The Ministry of Natural Resources is responsible for the operation and maintenance of 310 dams across the province and announced $22 million to repair six dams in 2023 and $75 million to repair ten dams in 2024.
“This investment is welcome news for our municipality. Rehabilitating this dam will help protect homes and shorelines, manage water levels more effectively, and preserve the natural environment that our residents depend upon,” said Front of Yonge Mayor Roger Haley.
