Did you know that the “ponds” in Spruce Grove neighbourhoods are actually Stormwater Management Facilities (SWMF) and play an important role when it comes to our water quality?

In natural, undeveloped areas, stormwater is absorbed by plants and soil, or naturally flows back into ponds and streams. However, in urban centres, hard surfaces like sidewalks, roads and rooftops prevent stormwater from soaking into the ground.

What may seem like a simple community pond actually collects rain, snow melt and contaminants, such as oils and salts that enter the storm sewer system through the city’s catch basins and manholes.  SWMF filter this water and regulate it's release gradually returning to the local watershed. 

As it is important that the water being released back into the system meets specific quality standards, the City has a robust plan for stormwater management.

 

Benefits

Stormwater management facilities, along with the natural habitat surrounding them, provide many benefits:

• Reduces risk of flooding and property damage
• Protects water quality by filtering the water and removing sediment and other materials
• Provides a habitat for wildlife
• Increases biodiversity

Naturalization

The naturalization of stormwater management facilities means that a designated area surrounding the stormwater facility is returned to its natural state. This includes the growth of wetland plants, shrubs, trees and grasses that are not landscaped or mowed. Having established vegetation is essential to ensuring the stormwater facility works properly to support the water supply and ecosystem.

Health

During the summer months, algae may appear on the surface of these facilities due to several factors, including runoff from nearby properties containing phosphorus and nitrogen from fertilizers, pet and yard waste (clippings/potted plants), and warmer weather conditions.  It is worth noting that algae plays a special role in the biological treatment process of the water and some algae in a stormwater management facility is beneficial. The City of Spruce Grove does have a program that monitors, maintains and manages the water in SWMFs to ensure it is safe for discharge into the North Saskatchewan River watershed. 

Safety

Stormwater management facilities might look like a great place to skate or walk, but they are not safe for people or pets. Learn more about stormwater safety.

Did you know?

• The City of Spruce Grove operates and maintains approximately 46 wet ponds and 7 dry ponds.
• Stormwater management facilities are designed to release stormwater at rates similar to pre-development rates, protecting the downstream storm system from flooding and erosion.
• Stormwater management facilities are designed to temporarily accommodate storms that have a one percent chance of occurring each year.
• Land developers and home builders are required to follow City standards and guidelines to help manage surface runoff, erosion and sedimentation.
• Vegetation around stormwater management facilities helps to filter surface runoff before it enters the facility.
• Cleaning up after your pet helps preserve water quality in stormwater management facilities and the overall stormwater system, by preventing animal waste from contaminating the system.
• Household fertilizers, discarded lawn clippings/potted plants, herbicides, and pesticides can upset the balance of algae in a stormwater management facility and cause algae blooms which can be harmful to wildlife, pets, and people.