Cranbrook Lagoons - Berm Upgrades Phase 3

Phase 3 of the Cranbrook infrastructure upgrades focused on the reconstruction and reinforcement of lagoon cell berms to enhance water management and environmental resilience. This essential project, led by Copcan Civil, involved the construction of temporary coffer dams, excavation and relining of lagoon cells, and riprap armouring to protect against erosion and maintain long-term stability.

Key Project Information

  • Project Type:
  • Budget:
    $2.2M
  • Timeline:
    Completed November 2024
  • Location:
    Cranbrook, BC

Scope of Work:
Copcan Civil successfully executed the following key tasks:

  • Constructed temporary coffer dams to isolate lagoon cells, enabling the safe reconstruction of cell berms to new design standards.
  • Installed a new clay liner to reinforce the reconstructed berms, improving the structural integrity and water retention of the lagoon cells.
  • Applied riprap armoring along the berms adjacent to Joseph Creek, spanning from the start of Cell 1 to the end of Cell 3, to prevent erosion and protect the reconstructed berms.

Challenges & Solutions:

  1. Environmental Protection: The proximity to Joseph Creek required careful planning and adherence to environmental regulations. Copcan’s approach included temporary isolation measures and precise placement of riprap to safeguard the creek and surrounding habitat.
  2. Temporary Coffer Dams: Isolating the active lagoon cells was essential for maintaining water management during construction. Copcan employed engineered coffer dams to create dry work environments, ensuring construction could proceed without compromising lagoon operations.
  3. Berm Stability: Reconstructing berms with a new clay liner and riprap armoring required careful material selection and meticulous placement to achieve the design standards and ensure long-term durability.

The successful completion of Phase 3 in November 2024 marked a significant milestone for Cranbrook’s lagoon system, enhancing its resilience against erosion and improving water management capabilities for the city.