Low water levels in the Speed River expected due to construction

Due to repairs currently underway on the Speed River at the confluence with the Eramosa River, the Grand River Conservation Authority will be leaving the gates open at its Wellington Street Dam, located in Royal City Park in Guelph. This will result in lower-than-usual water levels until repairs are completed.

The GRCA’s Wellington Street Dam gates are typically opened the third week of October (after Thanksgiving), and left open until mid-May (before Victoria Day weekend) to provide additional flow capacity, in anticipation of higher flows and possible flooding conditions. The gates are closed in the spring, to create a headwater pond that serves as a community amenity / aesthetic feature during the summer months.

The City of Guelph’s repairs were originally scheduled to be completed by May 17, 2025. However, due to significant weather events this spring, the City is anticipating a delay. For the safety of the workers completing the repairs, the City has requested that the Wellington Street Dam gates be left open until the work has been completed. The City is currently anticipating the work to conclude in late May or early June, depending on weather conditions.

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Media Contacts:

Zachary Cox, Communications Officer, Strategic Communications and Community Engagement, City of Guelph

Phone 519-822-1260 x3656  |  Email zachary.cox@guelph.ca

Serena Catania, Supervisor, Communications and Marketing, GRCA

Phone 519-621-2763 x2240  |  Email scatania@grandriver.ca