Beaver Dam Flats slope stabilization project
Project update - September 2026
An environmental assessment identified protected species, including snakes, in the project area. The City is reviewing its environmental reports and snake protection plan to address potential impacts on this habitat. Slope stabilization construction cannot begin until all required regulatory approvals are in place. The City will continue to monitor the slope.
About the project
Beaver Dam Flats is located near 203 Lynnview Road S.E., along the western edge of the Lynnwood/Ogden community. The project area includes the Bow River regional pathway at the base of the slope and a gravel trail at the top.
Since 2023, The City has inspected and monitored the slope to understand how it is moving. Current information shows that the movement is limited to the slope, pathway and trail corridor. It does not currently pose a risk to the Riverside Gate condominium buildings at the top of the slope.
The purpose of this project is to stabilize the slope, which is moving and creates a safety risk for people using the pathway and trail. The proposed slope stabilization work would reduce ongoing slope movement and help protect the Bow River pathway system and upper trail. The project also supports protection of the natural area and long-term planning for slope management and pathway connections.
Ongoing and future work
An environmental assessment identified protected species, including snakes, in the project area. The City’s Environmental department is currently reviewing the biophysical impact assessment report, habitat restoration plan, landscaping plan, and snake protection plan to address potential impacts on this habitat. Slope stabilization construction can begin after all regulatory approvals are in place. In the meantime, the City will continue to monitor the slope.
Completed work
The City has inspected and monitored the slope since 2023. In 2026, the City completed an environmental assessment of the project area, slope stability assessment, and detailed design of a project to stabilize the slope.
Closures and monitoring of slope conditions
The City uses regular site inspections and special equipment to track slope movement. It has found movement near the surface and deeper below ground. This affects the pathway and trail corridor. The City will keep monitoring after the closure, including after heavy rain.
Based on current information, the movement is limited to the slope and pathway corridor.
The slope's risk rating is above The City's action threshold. Closing the pathway and trail helps protect users while The City manages the site.
Future construction
Future slope stabilization construction can only proceed once all required environmental and regulatory approvals are in place. The City will assess options that protect public safety and limit impacts on the natural area.
Project budget
Council approved $2 million in 2024 for the design and construction of slope stabilization work.
Timeline
Related links
- Pathway closures
- Douglas Fir Trail Project
- Pathway and bikeway map
- Bow River Pathway Detour Map
- Slope Stability Management Policy and Framework
Contact us
Email: BeaverDamFlats@calgary.ca
For pathway closure and detour information, visit calgary.ca/pathwayclosures or call 3-1-1.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the trail and pathway closing?
The slope is moving and its risk rating is above The City's action threshold. The closures protect users while The City monitors the slope, completes environmental regulatory approvals and plans for future remediation.
What detour should I use?
A signed detour will direct users around the closure using the existing pathway network and Refinery Park Access Road. Pedestrians should use the sidewalk, and cyclists should use the adjacent roadway. An alternative riverside detour route is also available. Follow on-site signs and use caution.
Are nearby homes or condominium buildings at risk?
Current information shows that movement is limited to the slope, pathway, and upper trail corridor. It does not pose a risk to the Riverside Gate condominium buildings at the top of the slope.
When will the pathway reopen?
A reopening date has not been set. The Bow River regional pathway and upper gravel trail will remain closed until slope remediation is complete, and it is safe to reopen them.
What will happen next?
The City will continue environmental work, get regulatory approvals, slope monitoring, and detailed design. Future slope stabilization work will depend on the regulatory approvals.