October 6, 2020
Province Provides Update on Dams at Rapid City and Rivers
RIVERS—The Manitoba government is looking to engage with municipalities in southwest Manitoba on the rehabilitation of two dams, Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler announced here today as he toured the communities of Rapid City and Rivers.
“Due to heavy rain activities this summer, the Little Saskatchewan River saw unprecedented flows that put communities and dams located along the river at risk,” said Schuler. “We are working quickly to begin the rehabilitation of these structures so that residents in these communities can feel safe and have confidence in their local infrastructure.”
In Rapid City, the earthen portion of the dam was breached and washed out during a heavy rain event on June 29. Preliminary inspections have taken place and the concrete structure does not appear to have sustained any major damage or foundation erosion, the minister noted. The dam is currently being monitored to determine if any minor and immediate repairs are needed to prevent further damage to the control structure.
Manitoba Infrastructure is currently exploring options and hiring a consultant to conduct the design for the rehabilitation of the dam. The department will be consulting with the RM of Oakview and other stakeholders as part of the design.
A visual inspection of the spillway at Rivers took place in September and initial results have further increased the confidence of Manitoba Infrastructure in the structure.
A preliminary design for the rehabilitation of the structure will begin this month, which will include a further assessment of the dam and spillway in November. The department will be consulting with the Riverdale Municipality and other stakeholders as part of the design.
The level of Lake Wahtopanah was drawn down to prevent further issues with the dam, which will also allow a complete assessment of the spillway later this year, the minister added.
- 30 -