Opposition to Glenbow East Dam Proposal Grows Amidst Alberta Government’s Upstream Reservoir Feedback Gathering

As the Government of Alberta seeks public feedback on proposals for upstream reservoirs on the Bow River, opposition to the Glenbow East Dam option continues to gain momentum. The Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation, led by former Calgary mayoral candidate and current CEO, Jeromy Farkas, has voiced concerns about the dam’s potential impact on the newly opened Haskayne Legacy Park and Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park. The foundation advocates for the relocation of the Ghost Dam as a more environmentally friendly and less disruptive option. The latest round of public engagement, which concludes on May 13, presents two options for consideration, while a third option near Morley remains under assessment. The Glenbow East Dam, with an estimated cost of $992 million, faces criticism for its potential effects on park space and lack of flood protection for nearby areas. The Ghost Dam relocation option, estimated at $917 million, has gained support due to its minimal impact on wildlife and existing infrastructure.

Multnomah County Voters to Vote on Flood Protection Bond Measure

The Urban Flood Safety and Water Quality District is requesting Multnomah County voters to approve a property tax increase of 11 cents per $1,000 of assessed property annually over the next 20 years to fund a $150 million bond measure for flood protection improvements. The measure is expected to raise about $7.5 million annually and unlock an additional $100 million in federal funding for the project. The project’s total price tag is estimated to be nearly $300 million, with the remaining balance expected to be provided by Oregon lawmakers. The measure has earned the support of elected leaders, business and environmental groups, and the head of the Port of Portland.

Quebec Still Without Regular Inspections of Flood Protection Structures

Despite repeated flooding events, Quebec has yet to establish a comprehensive flood protection strategy or maintain a database of flood-prone structures. Experts stress the urgency of monitoring and maintaining flood control measures amidst increasing concerns over climate change. New maps detailing flood risk areas are in development, but concerns remain regarding the exclusion of meteorological factors and the need for transparency in mapping at-risk areas.

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