By Town of Ponoka

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Ponoka trail, river valley access closed over flood concerns

Apr 21, 2020 | 9:53 AM

APRIL 27 – With water levels on the Battle River now safely receding, the Town ofPonoka has reopened public access to the walking trail system and all public lands in Ponoka’s river valley. The Town thanks residents for their patience and understanding during the closure of the river valley trail system last week when the annual spring melt caused the Battle River to suddenly swell and flood some of the walking trails and low-lying areas along the river.

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Due to spring flooding concerns along the Battle River, the Town of Ponoka has closed public access to the trail system and all public lands in Ponoka’s river valley until further notice.

“With the arrival of warmer temperatures, citizens are reminded to be cautious around the Battle River and to stay away from the banks of the river,” town officials say in a release. “The ongoing spring melt may cause waters levels to rise and can increase the risk of flooding in low lying areas.”

Please be cautious of ice jam activity and keep children and pets off of the river ice at all times. Regardless of how thick a patch of river ice may look, due to constantly flowing water beneath the ice surface, there are weak spots that can quickly give way, sending you, your loved one or pet through the ice without warning.

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If your pet does fall through the ice, please keep in mind that calling for help is the best option rather than venturing onto the ice yourself. Stay safe and remember to follow provincial physical distancing requirements and public health directives as you enjoy the warm weather outdoors.

To report flooding issues within the Town of Ponoka that may require attention, please phone 403-783-4431 during office hours or fill out an Online Service Request on the Town website at www.ponoka.ca. The online form is located directly below ‘Popular Pages’ on the website home page. After hours, to report flooding issues that may require prompt attention, please phone 403-783-0142.

In the event of an emergency, please dial 911 immediately.