Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN BIDDULPH – At the February 4 council meeting, Mike DeVos, P. Eng., of Spriet Associates, presented the Drainage Report - Goudy Drain 2024. This project encompasses both the repair and improvement of an existing municipal drain and the creation of new drainage systems.
Mike DeVos explained that the Goudy Drain project involves extending the drain at the upper end across Fallon Line, transforming a private crossing into a municipal drainage system. The improvements will enhance the entire length of the existing drain and add a new branch, identified as Branch A, within the Dewan property to the east of the main drain. Recently installed pipes will be incorporated into the municipal system for future maintenance. Outdated clay tiles will be replaced, and the existing infrastructure will be upgraded to meet modern standards.
The watershed area affected by the Goudy Drain spans approximately 97.2 hectares, primarily covering Lots 25 and 27 in Concession 8. Originally constructed in 1976 under an engineering report by C. P. Corbett, the Goudy Drain consists of a main drain and a branch drain. The main drain extends from Fallon Drive through several lots before reaching its outlet at the Dewan Drain open ditch. The branch drain, composed of 270 meters of concrete tile, connects to the main drain from the south side of Fallon Drive.
The project follows the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) guidelines. The proposed work involves constructing a new 600mm concrete tile alongside the existing tile east of Mitchell Line. Portions of the 1976 drain system will be replaced and officially abandoned under Section 19 of the Drainage Act. New catch basins will be installed, and the drainage system will be modernized with pipes ranging from 250mm to 675mm in size. Tile joints will be wrapped with geotextile to prevent soil infiltration, and crushed stone bedding may be used for stability where necessary. Environmental mitigation measures, such as quarry stone outlet protection and silt fencing, will be implemented to prevent erosion.
Council acknowledged the necessity of the proposed improvements and will proceed with the decision-making process based on the recommendations provided. With the project designed to meet modern drainage standards, the enhancements will ensure long-term functionality and effective water management for the affected properties.
