The Brunkild Extension Dike (a.k.a. Z-Dike)

In past recorded flood situations where the floodway was present, water approaching the south west outskirts of Winnipeg was not a major concern. This year, combine highly abnormal snowfalls in Winnipeg with record shattering snowfalls in North Dakota and the recipe is optimal for massive problems with runoff from the spring melt.

The massive volume of runoff is not waiting patiently to enter the floodway system. This year, runoff swells the normally manageable tributary streams of the Morris and LaSalle rivers to the extent that a dike must be constructed to contain this flow from the south west portion of Winnipeg' s outskirts. The Brunkild extension (or "Z-Dike) is intended to prevent water from backing up from the Floodway and entering the City by flanking west and entering the LaSalle river channel. If floodwaters are permitted to drain into the LaSalle river channel, these flows could potentially enter the city where the LaSalle River joins the Red River behind the Red River Floodway - thereby "sneaking in the backdoor" to gain access to the city.

Almost everything conceivable is being thrown together to protect this dike from wave action. A dike constructed this rapidly is not expected to have capabilities to withstand wave action equal to a dike consructed over a longer period of time. More time for construction would allow more certainty in compacting the material used to build the dike, thereby making it stronger. This dike was built quickly, with the base established first, then material constantly added to bring up the height. On April 28, derelict school buses and scrapped cars were placed in a line in front of the dike in order to act as a breakwater and protect the dike from the damaging energy of incoming waves. Anything will be done to protect this barrier. Winnipeggers everywhere are wishing the constructors of this dike all the success that it will work. If the weather cooperates with us, chances are good that this dike will do its job.

Please remember: Many of the images you will see contain the homes of people who have been uprooted from their families, homes, and livelihoods. They need your help NOW. Please contact your LOCAL RED CROSS and tell them you wish to donate to the FUND FOR MANITOBA FLOOD RELIEF......THANK YOU FOR YOUR CARING SUPPORT!

Please watch this space for additional updates. We will be bringing you more stories in the days ahead.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have stories and photos you can share with us. We'll get them on this site immediately upon receiving them. You can also telephone us to contribute your flood stories by calling our flood info hotline at 992-2203.