Winter Operations
During the winter months, gravel maintenance focuses on addressing hazards that pose an immediate danger to the public. One of the biggest concerns is roads becoming rough, particularly after December, when frost settles deep into the surface. To mitigate these conditions, warning signs and flags are placed to alert motorists of rough roads. When a Chinook arrives and temperatures rise above freezing, graders are dispatched to smooth out affected areas.
Chinooks can also cause water runoff from melting snow. To manage this, the County utilizes two heated pressure washers capable of thawing frozen culverts, ensuring proper drainage in road ditches.
In late fall, the County installs approximately 2,600 meters of snow fencing at key locations prone to severe drifting. These locations are selected based on historical data, considering factors such as hills, low-lying roads, and surrounding vegetation.
Additionally, truck drivers work through the winter to stockpile gravel for the County’s summer graveling program. The primary gravel sources are in the northern part of the region, with materials hauled to southern locations, including stockpiles in the Tilley and Rolling Hills areas. Each location receives approximately 5,000 cubic meters of gravel to ensure adequate supply for road maintenance in the warmer months.
