By Emily Stonehouse

“Mother Nature is in charge,” said Mayor Bob Carter, in reference to Minden holding their breath as flood season approaches.

The township has had major floods occur in the recent years of 2013, 2017, and 2019, with a smattering of flood watches and warnings filling the years between.

Positioned along the Gull River, the spring run-off presents the risk of high water levels every time winter melts away, but this year, with accumulating snow levels, locals are feeling on-edge. The current snow depth across the county ranges between 50 to 80 centimeters, and Carter noted that if there are a series of warm days back-to-back, that could be dangerous.

“In March we will really get started on planning,” said Carter, noting that township staff from multiple municipalities sit down with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) and Parks Canada.

“Currently, there are devices used to measure the depths of the water, and devices through the forest to measure snow levels, and the water content of that snow,” said Carter.

Mike Fenn of the MNRF shared that flooding risks depend on the rate of snowmelt and weather patterns. “Parks Canada conducts most snow measurements,” said Fenn. “(and they’re used) to inform their dam operations strategy. The ministry continuously conducts flood risk assessments, monitors weather and water levels, and provides updates through the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program.”

At their AGM two weeks ago, the Minden Community Food Centre added “flood preparation” to their agenda. “It’s something we have to be ready for,” said president of the centre, Gary Stoner. In the past, the food centre supplied warm soup and fresh sandwiches to volunteers assisting in flood relief. They also partnered with the Red Cross during past floods to offer food to those who were displaced from their homes or businesses due to flood damages.

“Hopefully, we will get a nice, gradual melt,” said Carter, noting that a silver lining to the quick and heavy winter was that the ground did not entirely freeze, offering some wiggle room for water storage in the land. “Right now, other than having a lot of snow, there is no indication whatsoever that it could turn into a flood.”

While Carter noted that many people in Minden have been through a flooding experience before, he suggests looking up some information online about how to be effectively ready for a potential disaster. “We need to be prepared for any type of emergency,” he said. The township has an emergency management plan in place, and is ready to launch the plan should the need arise. “We know what to do, and how to do it,” Carter said. “All we can do is project and prepare as much as we can.”