Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority

Central Basin Watershed

Organization
Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority

Author
Marlene McKinnon

ESRI Software
ArcGIS 9.1

Data Sources
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, City of Sault Ste. Marie, Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority

Description
Conservation Authorities (CAs) originated in the 1930's when the province identified a need to improve resource management and the Hurricane Hazel devastation was on everyone's mind.  Control of flooding was the most serious concern as well as other natural phenomena such as drought and erosion.

Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) has completed flood control projects in five areas.  Flood control services such as debris/vegetation removal, maintenance and repairs are provided to the flood control channels and dam. This maintenance is essential to ensure the unobstructed southerly flow of water from the watershed, through the urban area to the St. Mary's River.

The flood control structures have proven to be a worthwhile investment.  The Fort Creek Dam has protected more than 400 residences and numerous commercial properties since its completion.

Acknowledgements
Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority