Sediment removal is on the radar

Tori Sutton
Staff Reporter
A plan needs be in place to deal with sediment at the R. Thomas Orr Dam, Stratford council heard Monday night.

During a presentation, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority hydrologist Rick Goldt said the sediment build-up near the dam could eventually interfere with opening and closing of the gates and maintenance of the dam’s stop logs.

“There is potential sediment spill problems and maintenance problems if we don’t remove it,” Goldt told council.

A sediment survey of the river has been ongoing and testing has found its composition is 65 per cent silt and 35 per cent clay. Testing has indicated it is high in metals and hydrocarbons, just exceeding government guidelines.

“It causes big difficulties in terms of disposal,” said Goldt.

The removal of the sediment in the dam’s forebay is estimated to cost between $210,000 and $310,000. Goldt warned the actual cost may be even higher as the figures quoted were established in 2006.

So far, the UTRCA has obtained provincial funding to help pay for studies related to the matter and for the final design and tender of the project. The city’s portion has been paid out of the UTRCA Orr Dam levy and reserves.

And while the project won’t start immediately, Goldt told council it is only prudent to have everything ready to go in case provincial funding does pop up.

“We want to get a project ready so we can pursue funding if it is made available,” he explained.

The presentation was for council’s information only. Jeff Brick, co-ordinator of hydrology and regulatory services, told council that the UTRCA could make financing work for the municipality and that there are funds in Upper Thames’ reserves.