A senior researcher at Yukon University emphasized the need for caution in planning development on adjacent lands in Dawson City due to historical flooding incidents. Benoit Turcotte, specializing in hydrology and climate change, pointed out that although the area is not a natural flood plain, past mining activities along the Klondike River have altered its landscape with rock piles and ponds, making it unique.
Turcotte suggested that building structures at the correct elevation and leaving space for the river could make development safe. He highlighted the importance of considering the rising snowpacks in the Klondike Valley, which can heighten flood risks, even during dry years. Anticipating increased snowmelt flows and ice jams in the Klondike River, Turcotte recommended working with the river to manage water levels effectively.
The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation and the Yukon Government have initiated a joint master planning process for the land near the Dredge Pond subdivision. Turcotte proposed creating a floodplain by removing piled rocks from past mining and planting terraced vegetation to provide the river with natural channels, reducing the intensity of its flow.
Minister of Community Development Cory Bellmore mentioned that the planning discussions between the two governments are in the early stages, focusing on assessing the land for potential issues like flooding. The master planning process will determine the type of development suitable for the land and address any challenges related to flooding. The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation declined to comment on the matter.