Coquitlam Dam Seismic Upgrade
BC Hydro has completed seismic upgrades at the Coquitlam dam to increase seismic safety and protect the safety of the public downstream of the dam, while meeting current dam safety practices.
As part of our ongoing dam safety program, state-of-the-art investigation technology had confirmed a loose zone within the hydraulic fill dam that could have liquefied during moderate or large earthquakes, resulting in some deformation of the dam.
After considering seismic investigations and public consultation sessions, BC Hydro built a new dam embankment on the downstream side of the existing rockfill portion of the Coquitlam dam. These dam improvements will ultimately allow the reservoir to return to normal operating levels.
Public safety remains BC Hydro's top priority. Therefore, during the project, the reservoir has been maintained at or below 149 m, which is safe, even for the largest possible earthquake.
BC Hydro completed the $65-million seismic upgrade in the fall of 2008.
Project reports and presentations
- Consultation Summary Report [PDF, 105 Kb]
- Environmental Assessment and Management Plan [PDF, 8.7 Mb]
- Environmental Management Plan [PDF, 1.1 Mb]
- Authorization for Works or Undertakings Affecting Fish Habitat [PDF, 606 Kb]
- November 2005 Project Overview [PDF, 1.3 Mb]
- November 2005 Environmental Overview [PDF, 454 Kb]
For more info
Coquitlam Seismic Upgrade Project contact:
Charlotte Bemister
Community Relations Coordinator, BC Hydro
Email: Charlotte Bemister
Or call the Project Line: 1 800 663 1377
Last Modified: Apr 5, 2007
