The Canso Tickle Small Craft Harbour Facility, originally constructed in 1968, is located in a narrow waterway that connects Chedabucto Bay and Canso Harbour. This facility features a single block-and-span wharf with four rock-filled timber cribs in an ell configuration, along with an approach and access road.

In an effort to ensure the continued safe operation of this active fishing harbour, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Small Craft Harbour Branch (DFO-SCH) engaged SHM Canada to prepare a report evaluating the physical condition of the wharf and approach with respect to permissible safe loading, rate of deterioration of principal components, remaining functional life, and required rehabilitation measures to extend functional life.

The SHM Canada team conducted and documented a detailed, component-by-component visual inspection of the wharf and approach in accordance with the Ontario Structures Inspection Manual (OSIM). A levelling surveywas carried out, as were non-destructive testing and coring to evaluate the condition of timber components. Drone photography was used to enhance record-keeping and to allow access to hard-to-reach portions of the structure, and a diving inspection allowed our team to assess the condition of submerged portions of the wharf.

Following this fieldwork, our team produced a detailed report according to the client's specifications. This report provided multiple options for repair and rehabilitation and associated Class 'D' cost estimates.