The Ontario government is investing over $75 million to rehabilitate 10 dams across the province to keep people and communities safe.

The construction projects will take place over the next four years and will extend the life of each dam to ensure they continue to meet provincial standards for decades to come. Rehabilitation could extend the useful service life of each dam for up to 100 years.

"Properly maintained dam infrastructure is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities and the surrounding environment," said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources. "That's why we are being proactive and investing in a stronger Ontario by ensuring dams across the province continue to meet our high standards and operate safely and effectively for many years to come."

The 10 dams being rehabilitated are:

• Baysville Dam in the Township of Lake of Bays
• Frood Lake Dam in the Township of Espanola
• Forest Lake Dam in Smellie Township
• Gooseneck Lake Dam in the Municipality of Whitestone
• Huntsville Dam in the Town of Huntsville
• Hurdman Dam in the Town of Mattawa
• Lang Lake Dam in the Township of Espanola
• Shaw Lake Dam in the Municipality of Huron Shores
• Whitefish Lake Dam in the Township of Lismore
• Wagita Concrete Dam in the Township of Atikokan

In 2023, the government announced funding to rehabilitate six dams which are currently undergoing repairs and reconstruction. These 10 additional projects represent the next step in the government's long-term plan to improve dam infrastructure to protect public safety.

This investment is responsive to past recommendations made by the Auditor General and aligns with the province's commitment to enhance public infrastructure, foster economic growth and strengthen communities across Ontario.

Quick Facts

• The Ministry of Natural Resources is responsible for the operation and maintenance of 310 dams across the province.

Quotes

"Our dams along our waterways in Muskoka are a significant tool for the vital work of assisting in the control of our water levels. Healthy water levels are important for species that make the shoreline their home and inhabit the lakes and rivers. By protecting this balance, we are supporting our vital ecological environment and protecting the economy of Muskoka."

- Terry Glover, Mayor, Township of Lake of Bays

"It's great to see the Ministry investing in this important infrastructure. The two dams in Muskoka are essential to managing flows in our watershed. This announcement will help to modernize the tools needed to adapt to climate change and respond to the ongoing challenges we face here in the District."

- Jeff Lehman, District Chair, Municipality of Muskoka

"We are so grateful to the Government of Ontario for recognizing the need for dam rehabilitation funding in the Town of Huntsville and our neighbouring municipalities. Our waterways and water infrastructure in Huntsville and across Muskoka are more important than ever the timing could not be better for these critical water infrastructure repairs."

- Nancy Alcock, Mayor, Town of Huntsville

"The Municipality of Whitestone is delighted to learn that the Ministry of Natural Resources has identified the Gooseneck Lake dam in our Municipality for rehabilitation. This work will ensure that this aging dam remains functional and safe for many years to come. We appreciate the Government of Ontario's ongoing investment in public infrastructure in our area."

- George Comrie, Mayor, Municipality of Whitestone

Additional Resources

• Ontario Investing in Rehabilitation of Six Dams Across the Province