North Cowichan will begin emergency repairs after a large scour hole was discovered in June where two water mains cross the Cowichan River.
The pipes are located downstream from the Highway 1 bridges and supply drinking water to the south end of North Cowichan and Crofton.
The water mains were exposed in the riverbed due to erosion that also compromised the stability of the south side dike.
Damage to the dike increases the risk of flooding to areas of Boys Road, Cowichan Tribes’ Reserve lands, the Boys Road water treatment facility, and the municipal well field.
North Cowichan Mayor Rob Douglas says, “if left unaddressed, this situation could result in catastrophic water main breaks and dike failure,” and the 4.5-Million dollar emergency project will protect the pipes and make repairs to the dike.
Emergency clearance for the work has been granted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Ministry of Environment.
It will proceed during the designated fisheries window from August 15 to September 15, when there is the least risk to trout and salmon in the Cowichan River.
North Cowichan says it is working with Cowichan Tribes, the Cowichan Valley Regional District, City of Duncan, and the Cowichan Lake and River Stewardship Society to address all environmental concerns regarding the health and safety of the river.
