Lunenburg water conservation continues after Dares Lake dam breach

For the second consecutive day, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia found itself grappling with water conservation measures on Friday after the recently built Dares Lake dam experienced a catastrophic breach. The dam, which serves as the primary water source for the town, collapsed on Wednesday around 1 p.m. following the formation of a crack, causing water to surge into the adjacent pump building.

This, in turn, halted water pumping and left businesses, industries, and restaurants with no choice but to close in an effort to preserve the dwindling water supply.

Mayor Jamie Myra revealed that the overflow submerged the pump building, rendering the town's water treatment facility unable to receive water. The mayor expressed concern that if the dam's repair was not completed within the next 12 to 24 hours, the town would face significant revenue losses, amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars during the Labour Day weekend.

He also noted that the dam's construction within the past year had cost the town approximately $1 million, and admitted he was taken aback by the sudden collapse.

Currently, two out of three pumps in the malfunctioning building are operational, though not at full capacity. Despite the town's residents diligently following the conservation directives and reducing their water consumption, the remaining pumps are expected to bring the utility back to safe drinking water standards.

As authorities work tirelessly to secure the dam and restore all three pumps, Myra emphasized the importance of collaboration among the town's residents and businesses. He apologized for the inconvenience caused to establishments like cafes, daycares, and High Liner Foods—the town's major employer—and students at Bluenose Academy, who were unable to commence the new school year.

Myra lauded the community's unity in resolving the crisis and expressed gratitude towards property owners like Connor Veinot, whose property experienced rising water levels threatening to flood. While the cause of the dam's failure remains unclear, Myra is collaborating with provincial officials to uncover the truth behind this unforeseen disaster.