Stormwater management ponds play a big role in gathering surface water runoff in the Town of Innisfil. By collecting runoff from rain and melted snow, stormwater management ponds help:

  • Reduce localized flooding
  • Control erosion by limiting the amount of stormwater that goes to nearby creeks and rivers
  • Improve water quality by allowing dirt and other solids in stormwater runoff to settle to the bottom of the pond

How a stormwater pond works

As water flows over developed areas where driveways, buildings and roads cover the soil, it reaches our waterways much more quickly since it cannot be absorbed. The runoff collects various pollutants (dirt, fertilizer containing phosphorus and nitrogen) and debris (grass-clippings, paper, cigarette butts) along the way. Stormwater management ponds help collect this runoff. Sand, dirt, silt and other sediments that pollutants attach themselves to settle to the bottom of the pond. Cleaner water leaves the stormwater pond and flows into our watercourse.

Staying safe around stormwater ponds

While the constant water movement is good for stormwater management, it creates unsafe conditions for recreational activities. Keep safe around stormwater management ponds:

  • Do not skate, swim, sled, fish or swim in or on the pond 
  • Do not play around the ponds as water levels can change quickly

Winter safety

These ponds collect water runoff from the roads. The runoff can contain salt and other materials that impact the water's ability to freeze. Pipes constantly move water in and out of stormwater management ponds, which can make water levels change frequently and impact ice thickness. Snow may cover ice hazards. 

Stormwater Pond Cleanout and Retrofit Program

We implemented the Stormwater Pond Cleanout and Retrofit Program to reduce phosphorous levels in Lake Simcoe. Drainage improvements also reduce erosion and improve water quality in Lake Simcoe. The project includes the design and construction of various stormwater ponds throughout Innisfil as per our Stormwater Management Master Plan and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority's Stormwater Pond Maintenance and Anoxic Conditions Investigation. 

This program includes one pond retrofit per year, annual inspection, and stormwater improvement works (e.g. low-impact development pilot projects, oil grit separator units, or enhanced grass swales).