Repair Work at Lock 3
A detour is in place around Shubenacadie Canal Lock #3 until November 1, 2024, for necessary repairs to the structure. The pedestrian crossing at Lock #3 and part of the grassy area behind the Fairbanks Interpretive Centre are closed to pedestrian traffic with detours in place. All services are open as usual.
Will this affect my usage of the park?
Accessibility of the park will not be affected. This project will have minimal impact on use of the park. Lock 3 behind the Interpretive Centre will be closed for the duration of the project and the pedestrian bridge will be removed. Detours will be in place for pedestrians to go around the lake. For safety, some of the grass will be fenced off to accommodate work vehicles. Signage will direct visitors around the fencing. When trucks are on site, safety staff will direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Some parking spaces will be closed temporarily.
What work is taking place?
A full replacement of the Lock 3 dam. The work being done is a Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables project.
Is the new structure the same as the old dam?
The new dam will be the same size but upgraded to concrete to ensure a more durable structure.
Why is this work taking place?
Lock 3 is deteriorating and requires repairs – these need to be done without delay. Completing those repairs will make no difference in water levels in Lake William, Lake Charles, Lake Micmac or Lake Banook.
How will Lock 3 be maintained?
Lock 3 has been a non-operational lock, therefore it will be maintained the same way as it has been.
The Canal Lock System
The Shubenacadie Canal, a network of nine locks built in the mid-1800s, once connected Halifax to the Bay of Fundy. This historic waterway was designed for transportation, not water level regulation.
The system as a whole was last operational in 1871. At that point, the canal system, which included several locks like Lock 3, ceased functioning as a transportation route due to the increasing dominance of the railway system and a decline in commercial use.
Most of the locks have effectively been serving as dams since then. Since the system stopped operating, the locks have been restored and repaired at various times for historical and recreational value, which is their current purpose.
The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables is not considering making the lock system operational. It is not feasible. It could change the water levels in other water bodies and have negative impacts on ecosystems, private properties and public infrastructure. Additionally, it would not provide much relief from flooding.
Which organisations were involved?
The Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, Build Nova Scotia, the Office of L’Nu Affairs, the Shubenacadie Canal Commission.
Who to contact?
For General Questions: Shubenacadie Canal Commission (902) 462-1826
For Project-Specific Questions: Department of Natural Resources and Renewables Waverley office (902) 861-2560