Emergency services respond to a lightning strike at SVCA Administration Office at 1078 Bruce Road 12 in Formosa, October 6, 2024.  Photo provided by Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority.Emergency services respond to a lightning strike at SVCA Administration Office at 1078 Bruce Road 12 in Formosa, October 6, 2024. Photo provided by Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority.
Midwestern

Saugeen Conservation office to reopen months after damaging lightning strike

Just over three months after a lightning strike caused significant electrical damage to Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority's headquarters, the building is slated to be reopened.

The conservation authority has announced the administration office in Formosa will officially welcome staff and visitors back as of 8:30 a.m. on Monday.

It will be the first time the office has been open since the October 6 lightning strike. For safety reasons, staff worked remotely while work was completed to repair windows and restore the damaged electrical systems. The building has since undergone professional inspections to ensure it is safe, functional, and ready for the resumption of operations.

"We extend our thanks to the public for their patience and understanding during this unexpected closure. We are excited to welcome both staff and the public back to the administration office on Monday, January 13 and look forward to continuing to serve our community in person," Conservation Authority General Manager Erik Downing said in a statement.

The South Bruce Fire Department, as well as members from the Teeswater and Mildmay stations, responded to the October lightning strike. No one was hurt in the incident as the building was empty at the time.

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