Upper Nicholsons Earth Dam Rehabilitation

The rehabilitation of Upper Nicholsons Earth Dam on the Rideau River completed in spring 2017. This project included stabilization work on the west embankment up stream of the spillway, as well as excavation and back filling along the retaining wall leading to the lock. The project also included the repair of masonry on the dam’s retaining wall to preserve its structural integrity.

Upper Nicholsons Earth Dam rehabilitation is part of Parks Canada’s infrastructure program, a $3 billion dollars investment over 5 years to support infrastructure work to heritage, visitor, waterway and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas across Canada.

About Upper Nicholsons:

In the mid-1820s Colonel By made plans to construct a dam, lock and embankment at Nicholson’s Rapids. The plan had the dam bypass the rapids with a canal cut along the east bank. Work was completed by contractor H.C. Steven and Co. who worked diligently on the canal cut and lock construction. Local stone from Clowes’ Quarry was used to build the locks and dam.

Communications

December 18, 2018 - Community Update: Ongoing Gate Replacements on the Rideau Canal
January 31, 2017 - Community Update: Rehabilitation Progressing Well 
November 7, 2016 - Community Update: Rehabilitation Work to Begin