Photo by Curtis Galbraith.

By Curtis Galbraith

City Hall

City council approves going ahead with study, public consultation on future of Bear Creek dam and reservoir

Sep 10, 2024 | 6:00 AM

City council has approved going ahead with a feasibility study and public consultation on the future of the Bear Creek dam and reservoir in Muskoseepi Park.

A report had come before council that said the dam would require “major reconstruction” within 30 years, with what is called armouring needed in the immediate future.

Mayor Jackie Clayton says there are two phases to this consultation.

“The first phase will be to really inform people about what needs to be done right away and what doesn’t need to be done right away. There is some shoring up and technical, environmental work that needs to be done right adjacent to the dam.”

“However, in the next 30 years, there are other significant pieces of work that will need to be done.

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The first phase, which will include the feasibility study, is expected to start this fall. The second phase is set for next summer, after that study is finished.

Council would make a decision in the spring of 2026.

The estimated cost of the study is $200,000.

Clayton says several options would be considered.

“There is everything as an option, from dredging the (reservoir) to removing the dam. Those aren’t pieces of work that will be done right away. This consultation will come back with information, pricing, etc.”

“From there, administration will go out and engage with the community, so the community is well aware of the possibilities of the dam in the future.”

Partial dam removal and keeping it as it is now would also be considered.

We asked Mayor Clayton if council was worried that $200,000 could be spent on a study only to see nothing be done afterwards.

“I think that status quo is an option, but exploring the opportunities and possibilities is something that council found is a priority.”

“Council hears from residents on a regular basis (asking) what’s happening with the dam? Why doesn’t it have water? Can it have water?”

Residents, a long list of community groups and the County of Grande Prairie would all be consulted.