A recent dike inspection on behalf of the Village of Keremeos’ has resulted in a recommendation to remove vegetation from the dike’s slopes.
In a report prepared for the village by Associated Engineering, a dike condition assessment was also completed in addition to the villlage’s annual dike assessment.
The village is the diking authority for the nearly two kilometre long dike that protects Keremeos from Similkameen River high water events.Village Chief Administrative Officer Laurie Taylor told council at the April 22 regular meeting that discussions were underway between the village and the Federal Department of Fisheries regarding the clearing of trees and vegetation along the dike’s slopes. Taylor also noted that storm outlets and flood boxes at the east and west end of the dike were for the most part, in good shape, but were plugged with debris.
Short term work includes removal of all trees from the dike slope to prevent a possible gap or weak point in the dike from forming should high water dislodge the vegetation. Engineers are also comparing this survey with past dike surveys to compare dike cross sections.
The dike condition assessment consisted of a survey of the complete length of the dike, with survey points spaced 20 metres apart. Eight areas were identified as warranting further future investigation. The report also recommended regular dike inspections for settlements, bank erosion and sloughing and holes from burrowing animals or seepage. The report also recommended tying the east end of the dike into the slopeof the railbed in order to provide continuity, an action that will require an engineered design.
Cost of the annual inspection was $4,624.57, with the condition assessment costing an additional $3,725.55.
