The City of Nanaimo is urging residents to be on the lookout after safety booms at the lower dam in Colliery Dam Park were vandalized for the second time in less than a month.
Nanaimo RCMP is investigating the incidents of tampering with safety barriers that prevent people and pets from entering hazardous areas near the dam’s spillway. The booms also block debris that could otherwise obstruct water flow in the spillway, noted a city press release, and without the barriers strong currents and rapid water flows create life-threatening risks.
"These acts of vandalism not only endanger lives, but also threaten the integrity of our public infrastructure,” said Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog in the release. “We urge anyone with information to come forward and help ensure the safety of everyone who enjoys Colliery Dam Park. Public safety is a shared responsibility and we need our community's support to address this serious issue."
Safety booms are also a regulatory requirement under B.C. dam safety regulations.
Bill Sims, general manager of engineering and public works estimated the cost to repair and replace the damaged barrier components at between $10,000 and $20,000.
"We are committed to determining who is responsible and holding them accountable for their actions, especially when these deliberate acts endanger the lives of many," said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the release.
Anyone who has information about these incidents, or witnesses suspicious activity, is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP's non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 or the City of Nanaimo public works office at 250-758-5222 and refer to RCMP file number No. 2024-40853.
