Spring weather creates several challenges for the County’s gravel roads. As the frost melts under the surface, the roadbed gets soft and unstable, which traps water and leads to muddy, uneven spots. These problems are often worse on roads with heavy traffic.
Because of the recent rain/wet snow and frost still in the ground, many gravel roads are experiencing soft areas that do not support heavy traffic very well. Spot grading and adding material is not an option when the roads are saturated or extremely wet, road repair work can be undertaken once the roads dry out. Grading too much can actually make the road softer and harder to fix. The best solution is a period of warm, sunny, and windy weather. Until then, steaming culverts and draining ditches can help the roads dry faster.
Our Public Works crews are working across the County to maintain roads and clear or steam culverts to help with drainage problems. If you are concerned about possible flooding from blocked or frozen culverts, please call our Public Works office at 780-675-2404.
Please drive carefully on gravel roads. When the frost is gone and conditions improve, restoring gravel road surfaces will be our top priority. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we deal with the challenges of spring.
