Drainage issues persist at Calnash Ag Event Centre

PONOKA COUNTY -- Ponoka County will be launching an engineering study in hopes of solving long-standing drainage issues at the Calnash Ag Event Centre.

This comes as the drainage challenges have persisted at the facility since its construction back in 2010-2011. According to County staff, it's believed that the issues were the result of the building being constructed approximately one-metre lower than ideal. Administration has advised that continued grading and ad-hoc fixes are not sufficient, and that an engineered drainage solution is required.

These types of issues refer to the inability of water (from rain, irrigation, or snowmelt) to properly escape a structure or landscape, leading to problems such as waterlogged soil, standing water, or water damage.

CAO Peter Hall says a master drainage plan is required to address the issue comprehensively. In order to complete a formal plan for the Calnash Ag Event Centre, Ponoka County will need to spend between $12,000 and $15,000. The purpose of the engineering review would be to identify and finalize a long-term solution, providing direction for both the County and the greater community. 

Deputy Reeve Mark Matejka noted that previous drainage work had been completed with the recommendation that the area not be used for cattle; however, this advice was not followed, resulting in deterioration of earlier improvements. It's also believed that further development around the area had contributed to drainage concerns.

Ponoka County Council acknowledged that approximately $5.8 million has already been invested in the facility, which should have been constructed at a higher elevation. A motion to re-allocate funds to engage an engineer to address the drainage issues was passed by a 4-1 vote.