Lake Adams (see photo above) is possible because of the dam. This fall Matt Black, the Facilities Manager, noticed that there were sink holes developing under the dam. After trying to use sand bags to deal with the problem it became apparent that this was a really big issue. We have determined, after talking with experts, that a major repair project is absolutely necessary to save the dam. The dam creates the lake which is the centerpiece of the Canonicus Camping and Conference Center programming. So, even though the cost is high, these repairs are a must to maintain our ministries at Canonicus. The Pare Corporation has been working on designs of how to best repair the dam. Their designs will make the dam meet all the regulations for now and well into the future. Our investment now will save us money in the long run. They have just this week provided us with an estimate of the total construction costs for this project. They think that it will be $500,000 to $600,000. Matt Black reached out to the NCRS, the Natural Resources Conservation Services, from the very beginning about possible grants for our project. We have met with them several times to discuss the repairs. Our conversations have gone well. We are presenting our project to them for their consideration of a grant. If they choose to support our project with a grant, then they would cover 80% of the cost. That would put our cost at somewhere around $100,000 to $120,000. We are also reaching out to others for potential grants.
We are also reaching out to those who have loved Camp Canonicus through the years, or who have spent time at the Conference Center. Please consider if you can help us raise the funds needed to rebuild the dam. You can donate by sending a check to ABCORI (54 Exeter Road, Exeter, RI 02822), please write dam in the memo line, or you can donate online.
Camping
We are looking forward to next summer. Plans are being developed. Watch your email or check back here for updates.