Here are a few facts. Most berms are designed to protect homes from the danger of overland flooding. They are not designed to stop seepage due to costs. Also, some homes along the Red Deer River were simply built in the wrong location.
The degree of seepage caused in a high flood event depends largely on the proximity of a house to the river and the type of soil under the house and the berm foundation. Many homes along the river were built on sand, silt and gravel. While the porous soil made it easier to dig foundations and wells, it also allows water to seep through underneath the berm. In high flow events, the water tries to equalize itself and this pressure can further cause groundwater to rise, often filling basements and in some cases rise through the ground. Seepage due to groundwater remains a responsibility of homeowners and needs to be disclosed if you are selling your property.
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