Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project completed in Fairmont Hot Springs

Fairmont Hot Springs is now better protected from debris flows following the completion of the Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project, a major infrastructure upgrade aimed at reducing landslide and flood risks in the community.

The $13.6 million project, celebrated earlier this month, includes a new debris flow barrier designed to contain up to 84,000 cubic metres of material—the equivalent of what might be expected in a 300- to 1,000-year return period event. The barrier, which stands eight metres high and stretches 135 metres across the Cold Spring Creek channel, is equipped with a three-metre-wide outlet reinforced with steel bars to trap debris while allowing water to pass through.

Other improvements include a creek diversion and basin excavation, reinforced water lines and a new access road upstream of the barrier to support future maintenance.

Construction began in September 2023 and was made possible through nearly $13.4 million in grant funding, covering 98.5 per cent of the total project cost. Funding came from several federal and provincial programs, including the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund and Growing Communities Fund.

The project addresses long-standing concerns about debris flow hazards in the East Kootenay region, which have been exacerbated by increasingly severe weather events. Local officials say the new infrastructure will play a critical role in protecting homes, infrastructure and essential services in the years ahead.

Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, called the work “an important step toward making the Fairmont Hot Springs community safer by reducing the impacts of future debris flows.”

Susan Clovechok, Electoral Area F Director for the Regional District of East Kootenay, said the project reflects strong collaboration across all levels of government: “From the funding support we received to the dedication of our staff and contractors, this project showcases the importance of partnership at every level in ensuring community safety when scientific evidence demonstrates that there is a significant risk to the community.”

The new barrier and associated upgrades are now in place ahead of the next spring runoff season, marking a significant milestone in Fairmont Hot Springs’ long-term flood and landslide mitigation efforts.

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