Mackie Dam in ladysmith is planned to be removed this summer. (Town of Ladysmith)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

dam removal

Town of Ladysmith ramps up for abandoned dam’s removal

Jun 24, 2024 | 5:29 AM

LADYSMITH — Public opinions are welcomed to help guide the removal process of an abandoned dam in Ladysmith, which the Town says will lead to disruptions.

Public feedback is being accepted before July 2 to “guide the decommission process and final product” of the soon-to-be removed Mackie Dam located on Holland Creek off Mackie Rd.

“Impacts related to trail access, noise, and aesthetic changes to the creek are anticipated as a result of the dam’s removal,” noted a Town news release.

The Town of Ladysmith states vegetation will be replanted on the sides of Holland Creek where possible following the decommission of Mackie Dam. (Town of Ladysmith)

Comments are being welcomed via email to: info@ladysmith.ca

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Located near the intersection of the popular Holland Creek Trail and Mackie Trail, Mackie Dam was long ago used as a coal mining water supply and is believed to be over 70-years-old.

The Town noted the B.C Dam Safety Program recommended last year decommissioning the dam was the best option from a safety perspective.

Removing the dam is expected to happen in late July or early August, with the Town expecting the project to be completed in the late summer or early fall.

“Some tree removal may be required for access and the trail surface may need to be upgraded to support heavy equipment. Trails in the immediate area of the dam will be closed during this time,” the Town release stated.

A substantial $2.75 million Community Emergency Preparedness Fund grant awarded in March is being used for the decommissioning effort, while the Town stated it has nearly $1.1 million toward the project.

The Town noted another abandoned dam upstream from Mackie Dam (Colonia Dam), as well as the Holland Creek water supply intake dam both require work to be compliant with provincial regulations and will likely be upgraded over the next two years.

A request for proposals is expected to be issued shortly to remove the old Mackie Dam on Holland Creek. (Town of Ladysmith)

Illustration of three dams on Holland Creek in Ladysmith. (Town of Ladysmith)

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