Preserving Critical Water Infrastructure for Future Generations

South Nation Conservation (SNC) is undertaking a multi-year restoration of the Casselman Dam to maintain this important water control structure and extend its service life.

Construction will take place over three years (2026–2028), with the first phase beginning in July 2026.

About the Casselman Dam

Constructed in 1958, the Casselman Dam is located on the South Nation River in the Municipality of Casselman. The dam plays an important role in managing water levels and provides several community and environmental benefits, including:

• Supporting the Municipality of Casselman's drinking water intake.
• Maintaining water levels for municipal waterworks and Fire Services.
• Providing important aquatic habitat and refuge during periods of low water.
• Providing river access and supporting recreation at the High Falls Conservation Area. 
• Helping manage water levels along the South Nation River.
  

 

To ensure the dam continues to operate safely and effectively, rehabilitation work is required to repair aging infrastructure and preserve the structure for years to come.

Project Overview

The Casselman Dam Restoration Project is a three-year rehabilitation project that will improve the condition and longevity of the dam and represents an investment of over $1.5 million dollars (2026-2028).

2026 Construction

Work during the 2026 construction season will focus on repairs to the sluiceway and stoplog system, including rehabilitation of deteriorated concrete and associated infrastructure.

Additional repairs to the 139-metre weir section will be completed during the 2027 and 2028 construction seasons.

Construction Timeline

The schedule is weather and water-level dependent.

Current anticipated schedule:

• Week of July 6, 2026 – Site preparation and installation of erosion and sediment control measures.
• Week of July 13, 2026 – Contractor mobilization and construction activities begin.
• Tentative July 20, 2026 – In-water work begins.
• July 20–25, 2026 (anticipated) – Temporary closure of the adjacent park to support construction activities.
• July 26, 2026 (anticipated) – Park reopens with limited public access while work continues.
• September 2026 – Completion of the 2026 construction phase is anticipated.
• October 2026 – Site restoration and project close-out.
  
  

Future construction phases will occur during the 2027 and 2028 construction seasons.

What to Expect

During construction, residents and visitors may notice:

• Construction equipment and vehicles in the project area.
• Temporary fencing and safety barriers.
• Increased noise during daytime working hours.
• Temporary closures or restricted access to portions of the adjacent park.
• Construction traffic entering and leaving the site.
  
  

Every effort will be made to minimize disruptions while ensuring the safety of workers and the public.

High Falls Conservation Area and the boat launch on the South Nation River are expected to remain open throughout the project. 

Protecting the Environment

SNC and its contractor will implement measures to protect the South Nation River and surrounding environment throughout construction, including:

• Installation of erosion and sediment control measures.
• Timing in-water work to reduce impacts on aquatic habitat.
• Continuous monitoring of construction activities.
• Restoration of disturbed areas following construction.
  
  

Project Updates

Project updates, construction notices, and schedule changes will be posted on this page as they become available.

Current Status

July 2026

• Temporary park closures in the week of July 20
• Site preparation completed.
• Construction scheduled to begin the week of July 13.
• In-water work anticipated to begin July 20, subject to water levels.
  
  

Transport Canada Notice of Work

Contact Us

If you have questions about the Casselman Dam Restoration Project, please contact:

South Nation Conservation

Phillip Dagenais, Water Resources Specialist - Monitoring
📧pdagenais@nation.on.ca   📞 1-877-984-2948