Niagara on the Lake Irrigation Ditch

City of Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL)| Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, Canada| Flood protection Flow regulation Residential

The problem

Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL), a picturesque town situated at the confluence of the Niagara River and Lake Ontario, is a captivating destination known for its charming festivals, colonial-style architecture, and flourishing wineries. The intrinsic connection to water is palpable throughout NOTL, a feature that holds essential significance for the local orchards and vineyards. Given the region's undulating terrain, drainage ditches serve as vital conduits for channeling water through these agricultural landscapes.

 

To navigate the elevation changes, pumps play a pivotal role in transporting water uphill to reach higher orchards and vineyards.

 

In one specific scenario, a unique challenge presented itself: maintaining a consistent water level within a ditch even when the downhill pumps were deactivated. This was of utmost importance to ensure the preservation of both the pump integrity and the water level in the ditches. Allowing water and accompanying debris to flow back down the hill post-pump deactivation could potentially lead to pump damage.

 

However, the more critical concern was the reduction in water levels within the ditches, which could have far-reaching consequences for the orchards and vineyards.

 

Addressing this challenge required an innovative solution that would ensure the stability of both the irrigation system and the surrounding agricultural environment.

Wastop Backventil

Solution

WaStop® Inline Check valve

In collaboration with NOTL, Devine & Associates embarked on a thoughtful exploration of potential solutions to address the unique challenge at hand. The outcome of these discussions led to a strategic decision: the installation of a DN700 WaStop valve at the summit of the hill.

This calculated move was designed to counter backflow, thereby preserving water levels within the higher-elevation ditches. Fortuitously, the presence of a headwall facilitated the straightforward installation of the WaStop valve, streamlining the implementation process.

With the WaStop valve firmly in place, the need for sandbags as a makeshift measure was rendered obsolete. The valve's effectiveness in preventing backflow ensures that the water level downstream remains consistent. Notably, the low maintenance requirements of the valve contribute to its long-term reliability, offering the assurance that the orchards and vineyards will benefit from an adequate water supply within the ditches.

This, in turn, plays a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of top-quality fruit and world-class wines, which are emblematic of NOTL's agricultural prowess. The synergy between Devine & Associates' strategic approach and the implementation of the WaStop valve speaks to a well-devised solution that harmonizes with the region's agricultural aspirations.

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