Stormwater Management Facility Signage
Educational signs have been placed at all Stormwater Management Ponds that abut trails in BWG to explain how they work, as well as to caution residents and visitors about the potential hazards of these human-made bodies of water.
Click the picture below to view a larger image of the sign, or scroll down for a text-only version.
What is a Stormwater Pond?
A stormwater pond is a constructed facility that is designed to improve water quality, provide flood protection and reduce erosion in downstream watercourses. Although these ponds can look natural, a stormwater pond is an engineered structure that must be maintained and cleaned out periodically to ensure proper function.
How does it work?
Step 1: The stormwater pond collects surface water runoff from rooftops, lands and roads, either overland or through catch basins.
Step 2: Solids and sediment in the water settle to the bottom of the pond.
Step 3: Plants and bacteria help to remove some pollutants.
Step 4: Cleaner water leaves the stormwater pond and eventually makes its way to the West Holland River and Lake Simcoe.
Safety Precautions
For your own safety and that of the environment, the following activities are prohibited at stormwater ponds:
- no wading or swimming
- no releasing fish
- no fishing
- no boating
- no pets in the water
- no skating
- no trash dumping
- no feeding wildlife
- no smoking or vaping
