Geotechnical Studies for Culvert Replacement Begin in Kahnawake

12/05/2024

The Kahnawà:ke Environment Protection Office (KEPO) and the Capital Unit of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) are informing the community about upcoming geotechnical studies for culvert replacement. Consulting firm GIE Inc. will conduct these studies at four (4) creek stream culverts between December 5 and 20, 2024.

This work is part of the preparation for the replacement of the culverts, scheduled for Fall 2025. The upgraded culverts will enhance creek stream flow, support aquatic habitats, and reduce flooding risks in North Creek (Whákeras Creek), Suzanne River, and the Little Suzanne River.

A team of two consultants and MCK staff will conduct site visits today, Thursday, December 5th to plan borehole locations and logistics. From December 10th to 20th, a single borehole measuring 25 feet deep and 2 inches wide will be drilled near each culvert to extract soil core samples. Narrow PVC pipes will be temporarily installed in the boreholes to monitor groundwater levels over 24 hours. These pipes will be removed afterward.

The borehole locations, marked below on the project maps, will not affect underground infrastructure or pose risks to private wells or septic systems. MCK staff will be present on-site throughout the process to oversee operations.

This initiative is part of the Entewahnekahserón:ni′ (We Are Rejuvenating the Water) project, supported by the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Fund from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

For more information, please contact the KEPO at 450-635-0600 or via email at environmentprotection@mck.ca.