Millbrook Dam Restoration Work summer 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Otonabee Conservation, in partnership with the Township of Cavan Monaghan will begin work Millbrook Dam restoration work this summer 2026.  

Millbrook, Ontario (July 6, 2026) — Otonabee Conservation is conducting vegetation restoration work on the Millbrook dam to address significant erosion and safeguard critical infrastructure. The project will help stabilize the area, protect critical infrastructure, and reduce the risk of further erosion. 

“The Millbrook Dam is an important part of our watershed’s history and continues to play a critical role in managing water resources for the community today,” said Janette Loveys Smith, Chief Administrative Officer/Secretary-Treasurer of Otonabee Conservation. “By investing in these restoration efforts, we are protecting both the structural integrity of this historic piece of infrastructure and the public safety, environmental, and recreational benefits it provides for future generations.”. 

Temporary cedar rail fencing will protect damaged area, while still allowing public access along the existing footpath to cross the dam. The areas will be restored with topsoil and grass seed. Project anticipated to last two years. Ongoing pedestrian traffic across the embankment has caused erosion of the protective soil cover, exposing the underlying Flexamat system. This vegetated concrete block mat is a critical component of the dam and slope stabilization that helps maintain the long-term structural integrity of the dam.

“The Millbrook Dam is a valued community asset, and this work will help protect the infrastructure, support public safety, and preserve access to this important area for residents and visitors for years to come," says Township of Cavan Monaghan Deputy Mayor, Ryan Huntley. 

More information and updates will be available on the Otonabee Conservation website.

For more information contact:
Janette Loveys Smith | CAO, Otonabee Conservation