Alarm system planned at Cleveland Dam

Metro Vancouver will explore options to add alarm system following the fatal water spill from Cleveland Dam that killed one person last week.

On Thursday, October 1, the spillway gate at the Cleveland Dam released a large volume of water into the Capilano River. One person was swept away by the increased river flow and another is assumed to be missing.

“The two dams that we operate, Seymour Falls Dam and Cleveland Dam, do not have external, public-facing alarm systems. We have heard very clearly from the public an interest in understanding the nature of alarm systems on dams,” said Jerry Dobrovolny, the commissioner of Metro Vancouver.

“As part of our investigation and assessment, we are exploring options to improve our system, including the possible addition of alarm system,” he said.

He said the investigation is still underway, but Metro Vancouver is confident that the event did not involve terrorism, sabotage, or malicious intent.

Metro Vancouver, he said, has also been assessing the appropriate release of water from the dam. Beginning this evening, Metro Vancouver will be lowering the level of the lake below the elevation of the spillway gate so that the gate can be lowered and taken out of service by the end of the weekend.

Metro Vancouver has also conducted an environmental survey to identify possible impacts to fish.

“As part of this, our fisheries consultant surveyed sensitive stranding sites along the Capilano River and found no stranded or isolated fish or notable concerns. This information has been provided to the Province,” he said.

“Naturally, the thing we are first and foremost concerned with is the impact of this event on human life and the fear and anxiety this has caused those who regularly use the park. The recommendations that result from our investigation will have this at the front of mind, as we want to be able to ensure that we have taken every available step so that this does not happen again.”