Should Parks Canada Repair the Gull River Dam in Minden Hills?
Official title: Gull River Dam 2 Repair, TSW, Minden Hills, Ontario
Parks Canada wants to fix an aging dam on the Gull River in Minden Hills, Ontario. Inspections found the concrete is deteriorating and key parts are rated "poor." The repairs would extend the dam's life by 10-15 years. Work is planned for November 2025, finishing before spring flooding in 2026.
Why This Matters
Live near the Gull River or use it for recreation? This dam helps control water levels. If it fails, flooding could affect downstream properties. The repairs mean temporary disruptions but safer water management long-term.
What Could Change
Parks Canada would repair the sill, abutments, and center pier of the dam. Construction would happen over winter 2025-2026. Water levels may be temporarily affected during the work.
Key Issues
- Should the dam rehabilitation proceed as planned?
- What environmental impacts might the construction cause?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.