INNISFAIL – A new recreational amenity is being added to Dodd’s Lake this coming spring.
A second and much larger floating dock, designed for all lake recreation enthusiasts, is being added just over 20 metres west of the existing facility.
The dock project, which is costing $20,000, is a partnership between the Innisfail Fish and Game Association (IFGA), Alberta Fish & Game Association, Innisfail Lions Club, Safari Club International and the Alberta Conservation Association.
Bob Leney, past-president of IFGA, told town council at its regular meeting on Feb. 27 that his club and its project partners wanted to donate the dock “100 per cent” to the town.
He added his club will assemble the dock and install it under the supervision of the town. Leney added his club was proposing the town will then assume all responsibility for the dock.
“To alleviate any liability on our part we're asking the town to secure any permits required for the installation of a permanent dock,” said Leney, adding that while the structure is a “floating dock” it can be in place in the lake year-round.
Following Leney’s presentation, council unanimously approved a motion to accept the donation. Leney said the dock will be installed in Dodd’s Lake this spring.
“I think this is wonderful, and appreciate that you're donating this to the town. It's a great addition,” said Mayor Jean Barclay following Leney’s presentation.
Leney said the idea for a second dock for Dodd’s Lake came about with its growing popularity as a recreational destination that has caused its shorelines to become more congested.
He said a feasibility study was privately conducted to determine whether there should be a replacement of the existing dock or an addition.
Leney said after consultation with the lake’s other user groups, including the local water ski club, there was “initial” agreement the location of a second dock should be west of the current facility.
He told council the new L-shaped dock will jut straight out 40 feet into the lake, and then 25 out on the L.
“I think the existing one is 20 out and then maybe 10 or 15 on the L,” said Leney, adding the water depth during summer on the east side of the dock will be about six feet, and about five feet deep to the west of the dock.
However, there was one concern he encountered.
Leney read a letter to council from Glen Carritt, a member of the local water ski club, who called for the new dock to be placed further west than what was initially proposed.
“If it is necessary to place a dock for fishing, we would prefer it be further west than shown on a map and closer to the street water inlet. This will allow for less congestion for loading and unloading,” said Carritt’s letter, which was read to council.
Leney told council he went down to Dodd’s Lake earlier in the day and did a measurement of where the proposed dock would be located in comparison to the existing structure. Leney said the plan has 65 feet between both “where they meet the land.
“If you can't put a boat in (between) 65 feet, you probably shouldn't be backing one up,” Leney told council.
He added that all other user groups have been “supportive” of the initiative.
“Anybody that we've talked to has been very supportive and excited to have another amenity on the lake,” Leney told the Albertan.
In response to a question form Coun. Gavin Bates, Leney said the new dock will be inclusive for all citizens of approved activities on the lake. He added it was the reason for the plan to install dock cleats and bumpers.
“In fact, we're intending to put a ladder in at the very end. I wouldn't but I know some kids go swimming in that lake, so we just wanted to cover all the bases,” said Leney. “This is a true donation for all user groups. It's not just for fishing.”
