The Grand River Conservation Authority continues the rehabilitation project of the Conestogo Dam.
The project is a continuation of work completed on the dam over the last several years to repair normal damage caused by regular weather and ice events.
In a news release, the GRCA says, this phase of the project involves contractors working from barges placed in the reservoir to repair concrete on the upstream wall of the dam.
“To accommodate this work, the water in the reservoir will be lowered at a faster rate than is typical for this time of year to allow the contractor access to portions of the upstream face of the dam. The dam will continue to operate as intended throughout the duration of the project and provide its primary flood storage and flow augmentation functions,” the news release stated.
The GRCA has a schedule to keep reservoir elevation at or above the lower rule curve until Labour Day, September 2, 2024, to help ensure minimum flows downstream to support the river’s ecological, municipal, and recreational functions.
“Cottagers and recreational users of the Conestogo Lake reservoir should expect fluctuating water levels as a result of this work. During the summer months of July and August, the reservoir level may drop by up to 20 cm per day. There will be no impacts to fisheries within the Conestogo Lake reservoir due to construction or draw down. The beach and boat launch at Conestogo Lake Conservation Area may be impacted or out of service earlier in the season than typical.”
Following September 2, the GRCA says the reservoir level may drop by up to 30 cm per day.
This phase of the project is anticipated to conclude in December, however, the schedule and operation of the reservoir is subject to change pending weather conditions or other unforeseen challenges.
Motorists are also advised that one lane of Wellington Road 11 has been closed to accommodate the project and owners of the nearly 400-cottages on Conestogo Lake are being asked to monitor their properties throughout the project.
Any impacts to GRCA operated boat launches will be posted on the service disruptions page of the GRCA website and more information is available on the project webpage.
