Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.
Otonabee Conservation is conducting restoration work on the Millbrook dam to address significant erosion and safeguard critical infrastructure to help stabilize the area, protect critical infrastructure and reduce the risk of further erosion.
“The Millbrook Dam is an important part of our watershed’s history and continues to play a critical role in managing water resources for the community today,” said Chief Administrative Officer/Secretary-Treasurer of Otonabee Conservation Janette Loveys Smith. “By investing in these restoration efforts, we are protecting both the structural integrity of this historic piece of infrastructure and the public safety, environmental and recreational benefits it provides for future generations.”
Temporary cedar rail fencing will protect damaged area, while still allowing public access along the existing footpath to cross the dam. The areas will be restored with topsoil and grass seed.
Ongoing pedestrian traffic across the embankment has reportedly caused erosion of the protective soil cover, exposing the underlying Flexamat system. This vegetated concrete block mat serves as a critical component of the dam and slope stabilization that helps maintain the long-term structural integrity of the dam.
Otonabee Conservation anticipates the project to last two years.
“The Millbrook Dam is a valued community asset, and this work will help protect the infrastructure, support public safety and preserve access to this important area for residents and visitors for years to come,” says Township of Cavan Monaghan Deputy Mayor Ryan Huntley.
More information and updates will be available on the Otonabee Conservation website.
(Written by: Felicia Massey)
