Castlegar's Sunshine 2000 AM Rotary Club received a visit from James Stark, Hugh Keenleyside Dam plant manager, and Mary Anne Coules, BC Hydro community relations officer, on Feb. 23.
The two gave a presentation on the upgrades on the dam and the economic benefits for the local community as a result of the work being done.
"BC Hydro is planning a significant amount of work for the HLK Spillway Gates Reliability Upgrade Project this year, and consequently the site will be very active," said Stark.
"BC Hydro is currently refurbishing Low-Level Outlet Gate three. The refurbishment process takes approximately three months and entails removing, inspecting and either replacing or refurbishing all of the parts; removing the existing seals; inspecting all existing welds; recoating the gate; installing the new seals; and inspecting and repairing the gate guides and other supporting equipment. In March, once work is complete, low-level outlet gate three will be reinstalled. The gate is then tested before it is returned to operation."
Stark also spoke about the economic benefits the project has brought to the entire region.
“This project brings significant benefits to the local community. An estimated $25,000 per month is spent locally in support of the work on this project, including the purchase of local project supplies and services whenever possible,” said James Stark.