Old Fort landslide risk getting a closer look
After three landslides at Old Fort, more work is now moving ahead to better understand the risk in the slopes above the community.
The PRRD announced Friday, Sept. 4 that the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness has approved funding for Phase 2, which will look at landslide hazards and risk levels within the Crown land slopes above the community.
The work stems from a ministerial order issued by the province on May 21, requiring the regional district to undertake a geotechnical assessment of risks to people and property associated with the landslide-related closure of Old Fort Road.
Phase 1 was completed in June and focused on imminent risk in the area, with the results helping inform the PRRD's decision to cancel evacuation alerts for the community.
Phase 2 will take a closer look at the hazards and risk levels within the assessment area, providing information that has not previously been available to residents or decision-makers, including sub-surface data to help better understand the longer-term risks.
EMCR has also confirmed that Ministerial Order No. M214 will be cancelled once the second phase of work begins.
"Old Fort Road is the community's only route in and out, and after three landslides, residents are understandably concerned about the road and the affected area in the community. So are we,” says Brad Sperling, Chair of the Peace River Regional District. “The PRRD has long advocated to the Province for this work. This assessment will provide important information about landslide hazards and risks in the area, helping residents, planners and elected officials make informed decisions. We're pleased to see this essential work moving forward."
The PRRD says it has worked closely with EMCR and a qualified professional throughout the assessment process, with the newly approved study expected to provide information about the slopes above Old Fort that has not previously been available to residents or decision-makers.
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