Central Okanagan

There is potential for major flooding from the lower section of Shorts Creek in the Fintry Delta, if action is not taken soon.

Photo: Contributed - Urban Systems

Eroding along the south bank of the creek began following a major flooding event in 1997. As a result the creek has migrated south, eroding into three lots and threatening a fourth.

Substantial eroding has again occurred as a result of three significant high water events this spring.

A risk assessment of Shorts Creek by Urban Systems was presented to the board of the Regional District of Central Okanagan Thursday.

That report concludes the risk of further erosion remains high and could affect both Fintry Delta Road as well as private property.

"In the engineering report there are serious concerns expressed for flooding out Fintry Delta Road which is the only access for residents. There is also the potential for property and home damage if the creek were to take an un-natural course from its current course," says Regional District Communications Coordinator, Bruce Smith.

The report made two recommendations:

• The ongoing erosion of the south bank of Shorts Creek should be addressed immediately to prevent further damages and reduce the risks to public safety
• The option of a permanent solution that could restore the flow within the original channel on the north side of the present channel should be considered by the province, regional district and residents.

This particular section of Shorts Creek flows within Fintry Provincial Park and according to the report any remedial work on the creek would need approval from BC Parks.

At Thursday's meeting the board asked staff to continue efforts to quickly bring all provincial ministries and agencies together to look at possible short-term solutions and actions.

Send photos and video of the Shorts Creek area to news@castanet.net