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Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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​​​We want to hear from you!

Metro Vancouver is engaging with residents about the Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program from April 2 to 30. This phase of engagement focuses on sharing an overview of the comprehensive safety enhancements implemented in the area and gathering final feedback from the community.

​How to engage:

  • Complete our online survey by April 30, 2026
  • Join us at an open house on April 16 (5:00 – 7:00 PM; Lions Gate Community Recreation Centre, 1733 Lions Gate Lane, North Vancouver)
  • Visit us at a pop-up event on April 18 (12:00 – 2:00 PM; Capilano River Regional Park on Cleveland Dam Field, 5077 Da​m Road, North Vancouver​

 

 

 

 

Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements ProgramCleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program<div class="ExternalClass8442998F567842FD99804BD177E9F908"><div class="ExternalClass60F032B300F94F65B1E3EED44E6FDE6B"><p>The Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program was initiated following a significant incident in October 2020. Metro Vancouver responded by launching a comprehensive review of dam operations and implementing a multi-phase safety enhancement program.</p><p>The Capilano Reservoir, controlled by the Cleveland Dam in the District of North Vancouver, is a vital source of drinking water for the region. The dam’s spillway gate regulates water flow into the Capilano River, with seasonal adjustments to meet regional water demand.</p><p>Since 2021, Metro Vancouver has worked to enhance safety infrastructure, improve communication tools, and better understand how people use the Capilano River. The program continues to evolve, with the second phase of engagement planned for early 2026. Metro Vancouver remains committed to protecting the public, preserving the environment, and supporting safe recreation in Capilano River Regional Park.​<br></p></div></div>​​​​​<br>Capilano River Regional ParkProgram

Purpose

The Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program is guided by three core principles:

  • Public safety: Strengthening warning systems, signage, and education to protect visitors and river users
  • Accountability: Engaging transparently with First Nations, municipalities, emergency services, and the public to ensure inclusive decision-making
  • Continuous i​mprovement: Using data, feedback, and expert analysis to refine safety measures and adapt to evolving public needs

Capilano River Evacuation System – t​arget completion 2027

The Capilano River Evacuation System will include visual and audible alerts and indicators that have been strategically placed along the Capilano River where rising water levels pose the greatest risk to provide warnings to help people evacuate quickly and avoid becoming stranded. Placement of these alarm locations was informed by several data sources and technical analysis including findings from hydraulic modeling of the Capilano River and a Capilano River User Study.

The alarms are silently tested daily and audibly tested monthly to ensure reliability.

The Capilano River Evacuation System integrates multiple alert and monitoring features to ensure timely and effective​ warnings. Each component serves a distinct purpose:

  • Lights (visual alerts)
  • Siren Alarm (audible alerts)
  • River Level Guage (visual indicator)

Alarms do not sound for weather events

These alarms do not sound in the event of freshet flows or heavy rainfall events. Environment Canada provides warnings related to weather events. ​​​​

 

 

Capilano River Evacuation Systemhttps://metrovancouver.org/services/water/ConstructionImages/_t/capilano-river-evacuation-system-map_jpg.jpgCapilano River Evacuation System

 

 

What to expect during alarm system testingWhat to expect during alarm system testing<div class="ExternalClassC265DD382BE4439789C01D35AC745FF2"><p>To ensure the alarms function properly, the system requires testing. During testing you’ll hear verbal confirmation, followed by the alarm sounding for up to two minutes. The verbal instructions will be:</p><p> <em>“This is a TEST. This is a TEST of the Cleveland Dam emergency warning system. This is ONLY a TEST. To respond to an actual emergency, you should evacuate the Capilano River and Canyon immediately. This is ONLY a TEST. NO ACTION is required.​”</em></p></div>
What to expect from the alarmsWhat to expect from the alarms<div class="ExternalClass9451176745294A33812967AFBA24F836"><ul><li> <a target="_blank">Hear an example of the siren</a><br><audio controls="yes"><source src="/services/water/PublishingImages/SlowWhoopMP3.mp3" type="audio/mpeg" /><source src="/services/water/PublishingImages/SlowWhoop.wav" type="audio/wav" /> Your browser does not support the audio element. </audio> </li><li> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJsU6PIEq8E" target="_blank">See a example of the strobe lights</a>​<br></li></ul>​​​<br></div>

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Engagement

At Metro Vancouver, we make decisions that impact over three million residents that live in our region. Metro Vancouver engages municipalities, businesses, and the public whenever we are working on a new program, policy, or project across our service areas. Learn more about our ​engagement principles.

Si​nce 2020, Metro Vancouver has been actively engaging and fostering relationships with Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), North Shore partners, and the public on dam and river safety initiatives, community engagement efforts, and emergency response planning.​​

 

 

Phase 1 (2021)Phase 1 (2021)<div class="ExternalClass8E46D78CA0324892BDFDCA533BB39311"><p>The first phase of public engagement took place between May and July 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the engagement was held online. Activities during this phase included 30 stakeholder meeting, 5,358 views of our engagement video, 195 responses to our online and hard copy survey and additional feedback received through email, phone and text.</p><ul class="fa-ul"><li>​<span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-video"></i>​</span><a href="https://vimeo.com/546255067" target="_blank">Phase 1 Engagement Video</a>​​​​​</li><li>​​​​<span class="fa-li">​<i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="/services/water/Documents/cleveland-dam-discussion-guide.pdf" target="_blank" title="Phase 1 Discussion Guide">Phase 1 Discussion Guide</a><br></li><li>​<span class="fa-li">​<i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span><a href="/services/water/Documents/cleveland-dam-enhancements-phase-1-engagement-summary-report.pdf" target="_blank" title="Phase 1 Engagement Summary Report">Phase 1 Engagement Summary Report</a></li><li>​<span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-link"></i></span>​<a href="/about-us/community-engagement" target="_blank" title="Learn more about our commitment to public engagement and our guiding principles">Learn more about our commitment to public engagement and our guiding principles</a></li></ul><p> <strong>What we heard:</strong></p><p>Feedback gathered through the public engagement process will be combined with the expertise of third-party engineer consulting firms working to help us design the long-term public warning system.</p><p> <strong>Public safety information signs</strong></p><ul><li>Suggestions to install more public safety signs along the river, between Capilano River Fish Hatchery and the south access to Pipeline Trail</li><li>Comments on the benefits of adding signs that communicate serious risk or loss of life in designated areas along the river</li><li>Concerns and comments on what to do or where to go in the event of emergency scenario</li></ul><p> <strong>Public alarm system</strong></p><ul><li>Suggestions to add more public-facing sirens and strobe lights along the Capilano River</li><li>Support for the content and messaging used during alarm testing scenarios</li><li>Suggestions to consider adding verbal instructions with the alarms to alert people of what to do during an emergency scenario</li></ul><p> <strong>SMS texting system</strong></p><ul><li>Interest in expanding the SMS system to include notice of river level changes</li><li>Suggestions to consider updating the SMS notification system from opt-in subscription to automatic push of public safety alerts</li></ul><p> <strong>Ongoing communication and education</strong></p><ul><li>Support to continue promoting program updates and engagement opportunities through signs located in Capilano River Regional Park and through social media</li></ul><p> <strong>Park and river user experience</strong></p><ul><li>Almost all engagement participants visit the Capilano River or Cleveland Dam at least once per year</li><li>​Activities most frequently enjoyed by engagement participants who visit Capilano River Regional Park and the Capilano River include hiking, running or walking</li></ul></div>
Program Enhancements (2022-2024)Program Enhancements (2022-2024)<div class="ExternalClass40F65A8B3DFA4826B8A85DD8C058DF34"><p>A comprehensive safety review has been underway since 2020, resulting in enhancements to the dam and the public warning system, as well as ongoing engagement with First Nations, North Shore municipalities, emergency services, and the broader public.</p><p>The first phase of engagement (May – July 2021) gathered input on how to increase safe recreational in Capilano River Regional Park. Feedback informed several initiatives, including:</p><ul><li><strong>Implementation of Alertable (2022):</strong> A mass public alert system used by North Shore municipalities and emergency services. It provides real-time alerts to stay informed and safe during an emergency or public safety events in Metro Vancouver.</li><li><strong>Dam Safety Education Program (launched 2023):</strong> A public awareness campaign educating residents and visitors about river hazards and safe behaviours, including tips and tools at <a href="/river-safety" target="_blank">metrovancouver.org/river-safety​</a>.</li><li><strong>Capilano River User Study (2023 – 2024):</strong> This year-long, third-party study observed how, where, and when people use the Capilano River.</li><li><strong>Hydraulic Modeling of Capilano River (2024):</strong> Using river flow modelling and field observations, Metro Vancouver identified high-risk zones where fast-rising water levels could endanger river users. These findings are informing new signage, barriers, and outreach efforts to reduce risk.</li></ul><p>These public safety enhancements reflect Metro Vancouver’s commitment to transparency, learning, and action. The next phase of public engagement is planned for 2026. In the meantime, safety remains our top priority as we continue to work collaboratively to protect the public, environment, and recreational enjoyment of Capilano River Regional Park.</p><ul class="fa-ul"><li>​<span class="fa-li"><i class="fa-light fa-file"></i></span>​<a href="/services/water/ConstructionDocuments/cleveland-dam-safety-enhancements-program-update.pdf" target="_blank" title="Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program Update">Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program Update</a></li></ul></div><br>
Phase 2 (2026)Phase 2 (2026)<div class="ExternalClass3BC445C476B344E18EA037C4C9B65A18"><p>​Metro Vancouver is engaging on the Cleveland Dam Safety Enhancements Program from <strong>April 2 to 30</strong>. This phase of engagement focuses on sharing an overview of the comprehensive safety enhancements implemented in the area and gathering final feedback from the community. Come to an event to learn more about our safety enhancement program, ask questions, and provide your feedback in-person.<br></p><p>How to engage:</p><ul><li>Fill out an <a href="https://engage.zencity.io/metrovancouver/en-US/engagements/dc5feaa7-8cb4-44a1-8712-122f2f1ee900?utm_medium=referral" target="_blank" title="online survey">online survey</a></li><li>Join us at an open house on April 16 (5:00 – 7:00 PM; Lions Gate Community Recreation Centre, 1733 Lions Gate Lane, North Vancouver)</li><li>Visit us at a pop-up event on April 18 (12:00 – 2:00 PM; Capilano River Regional Park on Cleveland Dam Field, 5077 Dam Road, North Vancouver</li></ul></div>

Keeping the community informed

Metro Vancouver will keep the community informed as the safety enhancement program progresses by sending updates through print notifications, email, the project webpage, and on-site signage. You can subscribe to our mailing list to receive regular updates via email by selecting the project name in our  ​sign-up page.

Subscri​be to Alertable Metro Vancouver’s emergency notification system

Sign up for free emergency alerts from Metro Vancouver through Alertable for Cleveland Dam and Seymour Falls Dam. Alertable is part of a suite of tools to support public communication about the Cleveland Dam enhanced public warning system. Notifications will contain information to confirm why the audible and visible alarm system has been activated, and will help subscribers know if the lights and sirens indicate an alarm-testing situation or an actual dam-related emergency.​​

Subscribe to Alertable

System alarm testing alerts:

  • In the event of a system alarm test, sirens and lights will activate, followed by a verbal warning indicating a test is underway. 
  • Individuals who subscribe to Metro Vancouver’s Emergency Notification System will receive a message indicating that a test is underway and no action is required.

Emergency alerts:

  • In the event of an emergency alert, sirens and lights will activate. 
  • Individuals who subscribe to Metro Vancouver’s Emergency Notification System will receive an emergency alert message indicating that anyone in the area or downstream of the Cleveland Dam should evacuate the river area immediately. An alert will also be sent when the event has ended.

Disclaimer: Please read and understand the risk​s

The river and shoreline present inherent dangers, hazards and risks to those who enter, including but not limited to changes in water levels, risk of hypothermia, unexpected surges and waves, fast flowing water, rocks, branches and the risk of personal injury, death or loss of property.

Persons using or entering the Capilano River(s) and shoreline at any time do so at their own risk. ​​​​​


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Stay connected

Sign up to be notified of public engagement opportunities and emergency alerts through Alertable.​

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Test ​dates in 2026

  • ​12:00 pm - April 16
  • 12:00 pm - May 21
  • 12:00 pm - June 18
  • 12:00 pm - July 16
  • 12:00 pm - August 20
  • 12:00 pm - September 17
  • 12:00 pm - October 15
  • 12:00 pm - November 19
  • ​12:00 pm - December 17​

 

 

Spring 2021 – Spring 2022Spring 2021 – Spring 2022<div class="ExternalClassCDE679EA5B704DBF9F904047920ECF0B"> <ul><li>Phase 1 engagement</li><li>Phase 1 engagement report out​​</li><li>Install of interim public-facing alarms​​</li></ul></div>0
Spring 2022 – Spring 2024Spring 2022 – Spring 2024<div class="ExternalClassC10EA73463AF46968857212B70BA9510"><ul> <li>​River user and public onsite surveying​​</li><li>Emergency Mass Communication Notification System Upgrade Project</li><li>Launched Dam Safety Educational Campaign​<br></li></ul></div>0
Fall 2025Fall 2025<div class="ExternalClass6D89D29F22054847A6BABC0E345AC556"><ul><li>Program Enhancements​<br></li></ul></div>0
20262026<div class="ExternalClassB85FEA664DE843B6AC30B6B9264CB5DA"><ul><li>Phase 2 Engagement​​<br></li></ul></div>1
20272027<div class="ExternalClass7C78FDF12E1E4F0D9CBF47439BE6AE98"><ul><li>​​​​​Capilano River Evacuation System Enhancements Completion<br></li></ul></div>0

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