Collapse of Beaver Dam Results in Serious Alaska Highway Washout

 Breaking News: Beaver Dam Collapse Causes Significant Alaska Highway Washout

In a rare and unexpected event, a section of the Alaska Highway near Contact Creek, just south of the British Columbia-Yukon border, was severely damaged due to the collapse of a beaver dam. The incident, which occurred on July 1, 2022, has led to significant traffic disruptions and necessitated extensive repair efforts.

**Incident Details**

Heavy rainfall in the region led to the collapse of a beaver dam near kilometer 897 of the Alaska Highway. The breach released a torrent of water that carried stones and debris, blocking culverts under the highway. With the drainage system compromised, water overflowed across the road, washing away a 75-meter stretch of the highway.

The washout occurred just south of the British Columbia-Yukon border, near the Liard River, disrupting traffic on this vital route. The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alaska-Canada Highway, serves as a crucial link between the United States and Canada, making any interruption a matter of significant concern.

**Immediate Response and Detour Implementation**

In response to the washout, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) promptly notified the highway maintenance contractor, who arrived on-site on July 1. Traffic barriers were erected, and work commenced on establishing a temporary detour. By July 4, a single-lane detour was completed, allowing traffic to flow with the assistance of a pilot car. This detour was essential to maintain connectivity while permanent repairs were planned.

**Repair Efforts and Timeline**

The PSPC estimated that engineered repairs to the damaged section of the highway would take between six to eight weeks to complete. The repair process involved replacing the destroyed culvert and reinforcing the surrounding area to prevent future incidents. A contract for the full replacement was awarded to Whitehorse-based Cobalt Construction Inc. on August 5, 2022, for $2.6 million. The work commenced promptly, with the main repairs completed by October 15, 2022, restoring the highway to full functionality.

**Community and Environmental Collaboration**

Throughout the repair process, collaboration with local communities was vital. The Lower Post First Nation played an instrumental role in clearing the old road alignment for the detour and assisting in debris removal. This partnership ensured that the detour was established efficiently and that the repair work addressed both immediate and long-term needs.

**Historical Context of Beaver-Related Road Disruptions**

This incident is not isolated in the context of beaver activity affecting transportation infrastructure in Alaska. In July 2021, the Richardson Highway near Paxson experienced two separate landslides caused by the collapse of beaver dams. Both events led to temporary road closures and highlighted the challenges posed by beaver-induced disruptions.

**Ongoing Monitoring and Mitigation Strategies**

In the aftermath of such incidents, transportation authorities have been prompted to reassess and enhance monitoring and mitigation strategies. This includes evaluating the structural integrity of beaver dams near critical infrastructure and implementing preventive measures to reduce the risk of future washouts. Continuous collaboration with environmental experts and local communities remains a priority to balance ecological considerations with infrastructure resilience.