GRCA undertakes Brantford ice jam mitigation feasibility study

The Grand River Conservation Authority is undertaking a feasibility study to investigate methods to reduce ice jam potential in the Grand River through Brantford. The study is being carried out in partnership with the City of Brantford and Ecosystem Recovery Inc. has been retained as the study consultant. The intent of this feasibility study is to further develop concepts and costs for potential mitigation options, as well as identifying implementation considerations, which would be addressed in a future environmental assessment.

A key component of the study involves consultation with stakeholders (public, landowners and agencies). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a virtual Public Information Centre (PIC) has been arranged to provide interested members of the public with an opportunity to review and comment on the objectives of the study and planned next steps, including potential mitigation alternatives, the evaluation process, and next steps. More information regarding the virtual PIC can be found online at www.grandriver.ca/BrantfordIceJamStudy. The deadline for stakeholders to submit comments is January 8, 2021.

The study is a result of the major ice jam that formed in the Grand River through Brantford in February 2018. The ice jam caused flooding where water overtopped and circumvented flood protection in sections of the dike system through the central portion of the city. The flooding resulted in the evacuation of thousands of residents, caused extensive damage to private property and public infrastructure, and required significant support from emergency response agencies.

A second PIC is planned for March 2021, where the results of the work completed in the study will be shared with the community.

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Media contacts:

Cam Linwood, GRCA Communications Coordinator
Phone 519-621-2763 x2251  |  Email clinwood@grandriver.ca

Lisa Stocco, GRCA Manager of Communications
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316  |  Email lstocco@grandriver.ca