Red Pine Lake Dam Replacement - Questions & Answers

The Red Pine Lake Dam is an integral part of the water management structure in Ontario. The dam was originally built prior to 1878, and has seen many changes and improvements over the years. The current timber crib structure was constructed in a style that was common up until the late 1800s. Engineering inspections in recent years have identified the declining condition of the Red Pine Lake Dam. The wood structure has outlived its normal expected service life and will be replaced.

A number of measures have been implemented while the design and procurement of the project were completed. This included meter bags, (larger version of a typical sand bag), placed at the downstream area of the dam as a short-term erosion protection measure as well as sand bags on top of the cribbing to add stability in advance of the forthcoming replacement.

Parks Canada is leading important infrastructure work to ensure safe, high-quality experiences for visitors by improving heritage, visitor, waterway, and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas, including along the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site.

The current Red Pine Lake Dam was constructed using timber cribbing in a style that was common up until the late 1800s. Modern dam safety engineering guidelines do not consider timber as an acceptable construction material for new construction. The concrete construction will extend the lifespan of the dam, increase safety and reduce maintenance needed at the site.

The built structures that make up the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site, including the dams, locks and bridges, are historic and complex assets. These projects are managed using established program delivery practices to ensure quality work and value for Canadians. With heritage structures and such major required work, as is the case with Red Pine Lake Dam, it is not uncommon for these projects delivery date to change. In addition, the investigative work, analysis, planning and design efforts required for dam replacement projects is significant.

In addition, the Red Pine Lake Dam presents a unique challenge because the primary means of construction access is via water. Parks Canada completed preliminary assessments to ensure the most appropriate way forward for both the design of the new dam and the implementation of its construction. For example, the hydraulic capacity of the dam and watercourse required a study prior to the commencement of the project design. Finally, the complex land ownership of this site and its access required the formal engagement with other municipal, provincial and federal stakeholders.

Parks Canada has made every effort to minimize impacts on local residents. Although the dam is accessible by water, transportation will be from the furthest road access point off the West Shore Road. Residents can expect construction noise as this is unavoidable in a project of this size however, it is expected to be restricted to daytime hours and will respect local by-laws, unless otherwise notified.

Residents who access their properties via Kennisis Lake Dam will be able to continue to do so throughout construction. There is possibility of boating delays as slow moving construction equipment is moved across the water however, the wait times are not expected to be significant.