‘Potential rockslide’ occurs downstream of Cleveland Dam

The Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) says a “potential rockslide” occurred downstream of the Cleveland Dam and above the Capilano River Hatchery in North Vancouver Thursday.

Dam safety has not been impacted and river levels and flows are unaffected, the MVRD says.

“This is a known area to our teams and the site of previous rockslides, which we actively monitor on an ongoing basis,” the district said on social media.

“Metro Vancouver is coordinating with Squamish Nation, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the North Shore municipalities, and the Hatchery to monitor the situation and ensure the protection of fish populations.”

Users of the river are advised to use caution.

“Please remember that individuals using or entering the river and shorelines do so at their own risk,” the MVRD said.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.”

The Cleveland Dam on the Capilano River was the site of a deadly accident in 2020 that claimed the life of a father and son and injured at least one other person. A drum gate at the dam was accidentally opened, causing a massive surge of water to unexpectedly rush down the river. The MVRD attributed the incident to human error. Three employees were fired after the accident and an alarm system was installed at the dam in April 2021.

With files from Michael Williams.