Stormwater Management in BWG
The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury (BWG) is dedicated to protecting both our community and the environment through responsible stormwater management. Our stormwater system is designed to collect, convey, and treat runoff - helping to reduce flooding, prevent erosion, and improve water quality before it reaches local waterways.
To ensure the system operates safely and sustainably, BWG complies with environmental regulations set by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). We operate under a Consolidated Linear Infrastructure Environmental Compliance Approval (CLI ECA), a comprehensive framework that allows us to manage and upgrade infrastructure efficiently while meeting strict environmental standards.
The Town publishes an Annual Stormwater System Performance Report in accordance with the CLI ECA. Please find below the 2024 annual Stormwater report.
Who do I Call in a Stormwater Emergency?
During Office Hours (Monday to Friday; 8:30 am to 4:30 pm), contact the Stormwater Division at 905-775-5369. For after-hours emergencies, contact the South Simcoe Police non-urgent line at 905-775-3311.
Understanding Stormwater
Stormwater is the runoff from rain and snowmelt that flows over surfaces like roads, rooftops, and driveways. In natural settings, this water is recharged through a process called infiltration, replenishing groundwater supplies. However, in urban areas like the Town of BWG, many surfaces are impermeable, meaning water can't pass through them.
As a result, stormwater flows rapidly over these surfaces, picking up pollutants such as oil, litter, and chemicals along the way. This contaminated runoff enters storm drains and is discharged into local rivers and lakes, contributing to water pollution, erosion, and an increased risk of flooding.
Stormwater Management Facilities
BWG operates a variety of Stormwater Management Facilities (SWMFs) to help protect human health, property, and the environment. These systems are essential for reducing phosphorus levels in Lake Simcoe and to help minimize the environmental impact of daily activities.
Stormwater can carry pollutants from common activities such as:
- Lawn watering
- Car washing
- Runoff from driveways and sidewalks
- Rain and snowmelt
- Improper disposal of household hazardous waste
- Road salt application
The Town uses a variety of SWMFs, each designed to manage stormwater in a way that best supports the surrounding environment. Click on the icons below to explore each type of SWMF, how they work, and discover how they help protect our growing community and natural ecosystems.
| Wet Pond/Retention Pond |
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Wet ponds, also known as retention ponds, are designed to manage stormwater and are typically classified into two categories: quantity ponds and quality ponds.
Quantity wet ponds are used to temporarily store stormwater during heavy rainfall to prevent flooding and erosion in downstream areas. By slowly releasing water into nearby waterways, they help maintain natural flow rates and protect surrounding ecosystems and infrastructure.
Quality wet ponds focus on improving water quality. As stormwater collects in the pond, suspended solids, organic matter, and inorganic pollutants gradually settle to the bottom. This natural filtration process mitigates the environmental impact on downstream water bodies and helps preserve natural habitats. |
| Dry Pond/Detention Pond |
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Dry ponds, also known as detention ponds, are shallow, grassy basins that remain dry under normal conditions. They are designed to temporarily store stormwater, allowing time for sediments and pollutants to settle out before the water is gradually released into nearby waterways.
This slow release helps improve water quality and is especially effective in managing high peak flows, reducing the risk of flooding, and minimizing potential impacts on human health and the environment. |
| Wetlands |
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Wetlands are shallow, vegetated areas with a broad surface area, making them highly effective for natural stormwater treatment. They remove pollutants through biological uptake and filtration by vegetation, helping to improve water quality before it reaches downstream ecosystems.
Although wetlands do not provide the same level of flood control as wet or dry ponds, they are excellent for enhancing water quality and are often used alongside quantity ponds to provide additional environmental benefits. |
Maintenance of Our Stormwater Maintenance Facilities
The Town of BWG is committed to protecting public safety, property, and the environment through the proper care of its SWMFs. These systems help manage rainwater runoff and are essential for preventing flooding and maintaining water quality.
Our stormwater system is regulated by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) under a Consolidated Linear Infrastructure Environmental Compliance Approval (CLI ECA No. 116-S701). This approval outlines how we must operate, maintain, and monitor the system to meet environmental standards. To ensure these systems operate effectively, routine inspections are performed to assess their condition.
Maintenance activities are carried out as required to remove obstructions, repair infrastructure, and restore optimal flow. These measures help mitigate flooding, control erosion, and enhance water quality, with a particular focus on reducing phosphorus levels entering Lake Simcoe—an environmental priority for the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Why do they not cut grass around storm ponds? / What is the grass cutting policy around storm ponds? |
| Stormwater ponds are components of urban drainage systems. Traditionally maintained for aesthetic purposes, storm ponds are increasingly being naturalized to enhance ecological value, improve water quality, and reduce maintenance costs. The Town has implemented a no-mowing policy allowing for storm pond blocks to naturalize and provide for environmental sustainability. The no-mowing policy applies to designated buffer zones within storm pond blocks. These areas are intentionally allowed to grow with native grasses, sedges, and wildflowers. Mowing only takes place along trails that had been incorporated into the original storm pond design or where needed for inspection. Periodic selective maintenance is allowed for invasive species management. |
| Are ticks a concern around storm ponds? |
| Yes, ticks can be present in natural areas around stormwater management ponds. |
| Can I garden around a storm pond? |
| It is not permitted to garden around stormwater ponds. This area is maintained by the Town with the purpose of managing stormwater. The vegetation planted in these areas is focused on erosion control, water quality, and habitat for wildlife. |
| When/why would a Storm Pond be drained? |
| Oftentimes when conducting maintenance or construction on storm ponds it's required that they are drained and dewatered. |
| What is done with fish when the pond is drained? |
| Fish are collected through a scientific survey study and the process is monitored by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). |
| How can you help? |
Residents can support the Town’s stormwater management efforts by taking the following preventative actions:
Every small effort plays a meaningful role in supporting the long-term success of the Town’s stormwater management system. |
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