By: Cathy Vaughan
Reprinted with permission from Chebucto News
Construction on the long-anticipated replacement of the Williams Lake dam is set to begin this June, marking a major milestone in efforts to enhance safety for people living in the area, protect their properties, and the ecosystem. The Province is investing $4.965 million in this project, which is being managed by Build Nova Scotia.
The entrance to Shaw Wilderness Park off Purcells Cove Road and associated construction area were closed Monday, May 11, for the duration of the project, which is expected to continue to late October. Other trailheads and trail systems outside of the construction area remain open.
Crews will mobilize on site in late May then begin the initial phase of construction, which will focus on the installation of a coffer dam—a temporary structure designed to divert water flow and create a dry, stable work environment. It allows crews to safely access the existing dam.
Once the coffer dam is in place, water will be carefully redirected from the work zone, exposing the current dam structure and lakebed. This controlled process is designed to minimize environmental impact while preparing the site for the next phase.
Following dewatering, crews will begin dismantling and removing the existing Williams Lake Dam, a rock and concrete structure that dates to the 1700s. Removal of the old dam is expected to begin mid-June with construction of the new dam beginning about a month later.
The replacement will be built to modern engineering and safety standards, ensuring long-term reliability in the face of changing climate conditions and the potential of heavy rainfall.
Residents can expect noise due to rock breaking and drilling as the old dam is dismantled. While the parking lot and trail to the dam are closed during construction for everyone’s safety, the public is asked to be vigilant due to increased activity and additional traffic in the area.
Throughout the project, environmental monitoring and mitigation measures will be in place to protect local ecosystems and maintain water quality. Pre-construction water and property assessments were carried out, as well as bird and turtle surveys. Water samples will continue to be collected throughout construction.
Construction of the new dam will take place throughout the summer and be completed by the end of September.
Project updates are posted on Build Nova Scotia and the Williams Lake Conservation Company’s social media.
To learn about the project, please visit Williams Lake Dam Replacement | Build Nova Scotia | Build Nova Scotia