The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA), in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Township of North Huron and the Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, has completed an update to flood hazard mapping for portions of the North Maitland River in the Wingham area.
Flood hazard mapping for this area was previously updated in 2019. Since that time, the removal of the Howson Dam has altered water levels and floodplain conditions along the river. As the dam previously influenced water levels through this reach, its removal required an updated assessment to accurately reflect current conditions.
This work was completed through the federal Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program (FHIMP) using updated topographic data and hydraulic modelling.
The study area includes sections of the North Maitland River in the vicinity of the former Howson Dam, with mapping updates focused primarily on areas upstream within the Wingham community. As a result of this work, revisions have been made to the delineated flood hazard limits. These changes have generally decreased the extent of the mapped floodplain.
You can view the updated mapping through this link:
WINGHAM FLOODPLAIN MAPPING UPDATE – Draft
We recognize that the on-line mapping can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with it. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like help with it, or if you’d prefer a paper copy of the draft mapping showing your property. Please email Patrick Huber-Kidby at phuber-kidby@mvca.on.ca or call 519-335-3557 ext. 236.
Maitland Conservation will be hosting a Public Information Center (PIC), where landowners will have the opportunity to review the updated mapping, speak with project staff, and ask questions.
Public Information Center Details:
Date: May 7th, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Hot Stove Lounge, North Huron Wescast Community Complex (99 Kerr Drive, Wingham)
The proposed floodplain mapping will be presented for approval to the Maitland Conservation Membership (formerly Board of Directors) at the June 17, 2026 Members’ meeting. This meeting will be held at the Maitland Conservation Administration Centre in Wroxeter starting at 7:00 pm. You may provide verbal comments at this meeting or submit written comments prior to the meeting. Please notify Patrick Huber-Kidby (phuber-kidby@mvca.on.ca or 519-335-3557 ext. 237) prior to June 10, 2026 if you intend to provide either written or verbal comments at the Members’ meeting, or for any other questions or concerns.