Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government says it is investing over $75 million to rehabilitate 10 dams across the province.
The investment aims to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of these critical structures, extending their lifespan by up to 100 years. These rehabilitation projects are scheduled to be completed over the next four years and will ensure the dams continue to meet provincial standards for decades to come.
“Properly maintained dam infrastructure is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities and the surrounding environment,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources. “That’s why we are being proactive and investing in a stronger Ontario by ensuring dams across the province continue to meet our high standards and operate safely and effectively for many years to come.”
The 10 dams undergoing rehabilitation include: Baysville Dam in the Township of Lake of Bays; Frood Lake Dam in the Township of Espanola; Forest Lake Dam in Smellie Township; Gooseneck Lake Dam in the Municipality of Whitestone; Huntsville Dam in the Town of Huntsville; Hurdman Dam in the Town of Mattawa; Lang Lake Dam in the Township of Espanola; Shaw Lake Dam in the Municipality of Huron Shores; Whitefish Lake Dam in the Township of Lismore; and Wagita Concrete Dam in the Township of Atikokan.
These 10 projects follow the government’s 2023 announcement of funding for the rehabilitation of six other dams, which are currently undergoing repairs and reconstruction. This continued investment in dam infrastructure reflects the province’s commitment to enhancing public safety, strengthening communities, and fostering economic growth.
This investment aligns with past recommendations from the Auditor General and highlights the province’s dedication to enhancing public infrastructure.
The province maintains a network of 310 dams.
“Our dams along our waterways in Muskoka are a significant tool for the vital work of assisting in the control of our water levels,” said Terry Glover, Mayor of the Township of Lake of Bays. “Healthy water levels are important for species that make the shoreline their home and inhabit the lakes and rivers. By protecting this balance, we are supporting our vital ecological environment and protecting the economy of Muskoka.”
“It’s great to see the Ministry investing in this important infrastructure,” said Jeff Lehman, District Chair of the Municipality of Muskoka. “The two dams in Muskoka are essential to managing flows in our watershed. This announcement will help to modernize the tools needed to adapt to climate change and respond to the ongoing challenges we face here in the District.”
“We are so grateful to the Government of Ontario for recognizing the need for dam rehabilitation funding in the Town of Huntsville and our neighbouring municipalities,” said Nancy Alcock, Mayor of the Town of Huntsville. “Our waterways and water infrastructure in Huntsville and across Muskoka are more important than ever — the timing could not be better for these critical water infrastructure repairs.”
“The Municipality of Whitestone is delighted to learn that the Ministry of Natural Resources has identified the Gooseneck Lake dam in our Municipality for rehabilitation,” said George Comrie, Mayor of the Municipality of Whitestone. “This work will ensure that this aging dam remains functional and safe for many years to come. We appreciate the Government of Ontario’s ongoing investment in public infrastructure in our area.”