Lookout Lake Park will be closed temporarily while the City undertakes required safety upgrades to the dam that holds the lake in place. 

This project is made possible through funding from the UBCM Community Emergency Preparednes Fund to ensure life safety in the event of a major earthquake.

In order to buttress the dam, the water level in the lake will need to be lowered temporarily. Pumping is expected to start Monday, September 14 and take approximately one week. Update: pumping was delayed and will now begin September 28.

Once the water level is lowered, work will begin to build up the rock materials on the slopes of the dam. Windley Contracting Ltd. has been hired to do this work, which is expected to continue for about two months. 

We appreciate the understanding of neighbours while these important safety upgrades are completed.

Protecting fish and amphibians

As the water levels are lowered, amphibian and fish protection procedures have been ongoing.

The team is working with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to mitigate potential impacts to fish, amphibians and natural habitats as per the Fisheries Act. 

An amphibian salvage permit in place for the duration of the works per the Wildlife Act in coordination with the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations.

Upon completion of the reservoir draw down, ‘in water’ work zone isolation and fish salvage procedures will be completed prior to any rock fill placement.

As per the Department of Fisheries and Oceans requirements, the upstream side of the dam will incorporate a fish habitat enhancement area consisting of fish spawning gravel with large woody debris clusters made up of select root wads, sections of tree trunks and branches. 

Enhancing the park

After safety upgrades to the dam are completed, there may be opportunities to consider adding some new features at the park, such as trail and beach improvements, seating or other amenities. Watch for opportunities to share your ideas.

Learn more

Read background on this project at: Colwood to consider upgrades to Lookout Brook Dam