The future of the Wellesley and Baden dams is now in question after severe flooding caused significant damage to both structures in early April. Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and intense rainfall on April 2 and 3 led to water levels rising dangerously high, pushing both dams beyond their limits.
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) responded quickly by dispatching emergency repair crews to both sites. Though the teams were able to stabilize the situation, the damage was already extensive by the time they arrived.
“These extremely high water levels resulted in damage to the GRCA’s Wellesley and Baden dams,” the GRCA stated. “Both are former mill dams and do not serve a flood control or flow augmentation purpose within our water control infrastructure.”
At the Wellesley Dam, pressure from the high water flow damaged the discharge gate equipment and caused erosion along the east embankment. In response, the GRCA opened the dam’s gates to relieve the pressure and has since secured them in an open position to ensure safety until permanent repairs can be made.
As a result, the Wellesley Dam remains completely emptied, and efforts are underway to relocate local wildlife affected by the drop in water levels.
The situation at the Baden Dam is equally concerning. Prior to the storm, routine inspections had already revealed a hole in the dam’s structure with active seepage. The recent flooding significantly worsened the issue.
“After the storm, it was observed that the seepage had increased substantially,” the GRCA reported. Temporary measures have been implemented, and more permanent construction work is scheduled to begin in early May.
In the meantime, the GRCA is conducting detailed assessments of both dams to determine their long-term future. The studies will explore cost-effective and low-risk options, including potential repair, modification, or full decommissioning of the structures.
The final recommendations will take into account public safety, environmental impact, and the structural integrity of the dams.
