Certain residents of Windsor, N.S., are expressing discontent over the decision made two years ago to shut the gates of an aboiteau, causing Lake Pisiquid to retain water needlessly and leading to other issues.
Previously, the open gates facilitated the lake’s drainage as per a directive from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, aiming to restore the Avon River to its natural state to aid fish migration.
However, in June 2023, a state of emergency was declared by the province, compelling the closure of the gates to ensure maximum water availability for firefighting purposes, especially during prevalent wildfires in the region.
One resident, fisherman Darren Porter, involved in river-related scientific activities, criticized the decision, questioning its efficacy in providing firefighting protection for Windsor.
Despite attempting a judicial review of the emergency order, Porter’s efforts were unsuccessful as the judge deemed the province’s rationale for the closure to be reasonable and justified.
During the recent spring aboiteau maintenance, when the lake was drained, the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq extended a river boat ramp to facilitate scientific access to the water.
Porter highlighted the availability of the boat ramp for studies, negating the necessity for a dry hydrant, given the direct water access through the ramp.
A dry hydrant, a pipe connected to a water source, currently links to the lake, with the Municipality of West Hants preparing for contingencies with or without this water access.
Mark Phillips, the CAO, outlined plans for a water storage tank and the amalgamation of Windsor and Falmouth water utilities to enhance firefighting capabilities and cater to population growth.
Phillips emphasized the importance of ensuring community safety and fire service efficiency, irrespective of the water levels in the lake.
Anticipating project completion by the end of the construction season, Phillips mentioned the community’s anticipation for a finalized aboiteau design decision.
However, some Windsor residents, like David Hunter, are growing impatient and seeking a resolution, particularly concerning the unfinished Highway 101 work.
