EloraFergusToday received the following letter to the editor from Brad Foell:
After a series of large storms in the past; with the last being the largest that I can remember in a very long time. This last storm brought back memories of growing up in a rural community in Waterloo County (Region of Waterloo) as it was known then in the 1960’s.
But my attention now turns to two vital infrastructure structures that we as citizens can help our public servants who yes fill in our driveways to clear the roads so we can go where it is we need to go.
The structures are namely fire hydrants and storm catch basins. If you have one or both which I do keep them clear as best you can. A pain in the butt but will help immensely when needed.
I have friends who are volunteer firefighters; and friends who are professional fire firefighters.
I think of them on the frontline; and I want them to fight a fire in the precious minutes to fight a fire and not be shovelling snow from or trying to find a buried fire hydrant . Make the hydrant visible remove snow from around the valves ( two on the side and one on the front).
The second one is our road surface storm catch basin along the road. I have a double catch basin at the top of a hill. All you need to know is where it is dig until you find it and reveal a little edge.
This will direct the melt water to a drain. Helps maintenance crews know where it is and icing up at intersections, sidewalks and driveways etc.
With a winter like this which we have not experienced in these parts of the province in a very long time will test the integrity of our storm water infrastructure. Communities that have an active inspection and maintenance program in place in their budget (many don’t) with respect to storm water drainage will fair better.
For those in low areas or have sump pumps dealing with groundwater make sure they are in good working order. You’re going to need ‘em when the warm weather hits and the snow melts.
With all this meltwater comes flooding. First time in a very long time that I’ve seen The Grand River completely covered and frozen over in large stretches downstream from Fergus to West Montrose. I cross country ski and snowshoe on off-leash outings with my nine-year-old labrador retiever in this area.
As for ice thickness no idea; and have no inclination to try to find out. Daredevils have run snowmobiles up and down as well as ATV’s doing donuts near the closed bridge at Weisenberg which is closed and has been for many years.
In any event communities downstream ie West Montrose, Kitchener (Bridgeport), Cambridge (Preston/Galt -1972/1973 infamous), Ayr; and Brantford.
I have witnessed ice breaking on the Grand River awesomely dangerous.
Large noise as the pressure builds. Large bang with huge pieces of ice falling from the sky.
Enjoy the wonders of winter with some knowledge for those who tread to walk their dogs or whatever.
Be for warned of the beauty and risks that our natural environment has to offer.
Brad Foell
Fergus
