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Vol. 21, No. 30, Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Floodwaters swamp Andrew property, sparking frustration over drainage BY GRANT JOHNSON A long-running spring flooding problem in the Village of Andrew has resurfaced in a big way this year, leaving one resident, who also once served on council, calling for action. John Van Vyfeyken says he’s watched water overtake his property nearly every spring for the past two decades. But this year, he says, is among the worst. Of the five acres he owns, he estimates roughly four are now underwater. “It’s not just nuisance water,” Van Vyfeyken explains. Flooding has reached the area where his septic system drains, raising concerns about contamination spreading through the pooled water across his land. At the centre of the issue is a creek running behind his property, unofficially referred to as Willow Creek. Van Vyfeyken believes the situation could be improved if the waterway were cleaned out and deepened. He says funding was once earmarked for that work but never followed through. Village officials acknowledge drainage has been an ongoing concern. Chief Administrative Officer Kylie Rude confirmed that funds had been set aside in past budgets to address stormwater issues across Andrew, based on priority. She also noted that some recent work has already been completed near Van Vyfeyken’s property, including the removal of beaver
dams and trees to keep water flowing. Still, some residents argue those efforts haven’t gone far enough. Van Vyfeyken and others also point to upstream changes as a possible contributor. They allege that the installation of high-capacity culverts by Lamont County has accelerated water flow into local creeks without adequate downstream planning, leading to spillover into fields and residential properties. The Village, however, points to an unusually heavy winter as the primary cause. In a statement, officials said recordbreaking snowfall followed by a rapid melt overwhelmed local systems. Public works crews have been monitoring Willow Creek to ensure it remains clear and flowing, while also checking for obstructions like beaver dams. The Village has also been working with Alberta Environment, Lamont County, and regional emergency management officials to explore mitigation options. Some of the drainage challenges, officials note, extend beyond Village boundaries and are tied into a broader network that includes Egg Creek. With waters still high and frustration building, Van Vyfeyken says he, and others affected, are hoping for more permanent solutions before next spring’s thaw brings a repeat of the same problem.
Photos of John Van Vyfeyken’s flooded property at Andrew.