April 17, 2026 - Durham Creek Regulation Mapping Update Public Review

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 17^th, 2026

 Regulation Mapping for Durham Creek Area to be Released for Public Review

MUNICIPALITY OF WEST GREY – 

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA), in partnership with the Municipality of West Grey, is preparing to release updated regulated area mapping for Durham Creek following the completion of a multi-year floodplain mapping project.

The project began in 2022, when SVCA and the Municipality of West Grey initiated the development of engineered floodplain mapping for Durham Creek. The updated mapping reflects current hydrologic and hydraulic conditions and provides a more accurate understanding of flood risk in the area.

Following completion, the mapping underwent a comprehensive review process. In 2024, both SVCA and the Municipality of West Grey formally accepted the updated floodplain mapping after independent third-party review by an engineering consultant retained through a competitive Request for Proposals process. The review process also included two public consultation sessions to gather community input.

As part of its regulatory responsibilities, SVCA is required to update its publicly available Regulated Area mapping to reflect new technical information when it becomes available. Regulated Area mapping identifies where SVCA review and permitting are required before development or site alteration may proceed. These regulations are in place to help reduce flood risk and ensure safe, sustainable development within the watershed.

“As a shared priority between SVCA and the Municipality of West Grey, this work reflects what can be achieved when local partners align around practical outcomes. Through a collaborative approach, and by jointly leveraging federal funding opportunities, we have been able to advance high-quality floodplain mapping that directly supports safer development decisions and reduces long-term risk for the community.”

-          Erik Downing, General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer of SVCA

Draft updated Regulated Area mapping for Durham Creek will be made available for public review on SVCA’s website for a minimum of 30 days prior to formal consideration by the SVCA Board of Directors. The mapping is scheduled to be brought forward at the Authority meeting on May 21, 2026.  Members of the public, landowners, and stakeholders are encouraged to review the mapping and provide feedback during this period.

The draft mapping can be viewed at:

www.saugeenconservation.ca/durhamcreek

Questions or comments can be submitted through the online form at:

www.saugeenconservation.ca/durhamcreekform

SVCA works with municipalities, landowners, and partners across the watershed to support informed decision-making, reduce natural hazards, and protect people and property.

For more information, please contact: Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority 
Email: media@svca.on.ca | Cell: 519-369-4295 | Website: www.saugeenconservation.ca