KAWARTHA LAKES-Parks Canada is advising the public of upcoming vegetation removal at the Little Bob River Dam.
The work began Monday, October 30, 2023, and is estimated to take six weeks to complete. Officials say targeted root removals support the long-term sustainability of earth dams remaining an integral part of flood mitigation in Kawartha Lakes. It involves the removal of selected trees and vegetation from along the earthen dam, originally constructed in 1908. The removals will help ensure the continued performance and safety of the dam. The roots of vegetation, such as trees and shrubs, loosen the soil in earth dams, creating seepage paths that lead to internal erosion, costly repairs, and shorten the useful life of dam infrastructure over time.
Users of the local trail network along the west shore of Pigeon Lake between River Park Drive and McGregor Drive are advised that the trail will be closed at Little Bob River Dam during the work. This includes the closure of the dam access lane on River Park Drive, which usually serves as a trail access point and along the trail at the south end of the earthen dam. Trail users are kindly asked to abide by fencing and signage, which will be in place until the work is completed. Dogs should be kept on leash when in the area to ensure their safety.
According to Parks Canada, the environmental impact of this work will be mitigated by cutting trees outside the migratory bird nesting window and planting new trees in other locations.
