A tale of algae and public pushback

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 13/08/2020 (1345 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

As part of an effort to develop a multi-year balanced budget the City of Winnipeg’s 2020 fiscal plan removed the funds to operate the 12 fountains and lights at retention ponds for the next four years, including the two located in Whyte Ridge. 

Each fountain costs just under $7,000 a year to run. Based on considerable negative public and political outcry, councillors approved a motion to reopen the fountains at the July 23 city council meeting, using unspent funds from other areas. 

Here’s some background information about this issue.The fountain in the east pond at Scurfield Park was one of the first features constructed in Whyte Ridge in 1986, and was a big part of the marketing to draw residents to the subdivision, as was the fountain in the west pond at Leon Bell Park, when it was constructed in 1990, as part of the second phase of development. 

During the spring thaw or heavy rainfall events, the drainage ditch can back up and allow fish to enter the ponds, and there is a fairly diverse invertebrate and fish population in the ponds, which attract interesting birds such as pelicans and loons.

Fertilizers used on lawns, storm water runoff from streets,and the presence of geese creates high nutrient conditions in the ponds, causing algae to grow, as we’re currently experiencing with the hot summer weather we’ve had. This affects the capacity of the ponds to function effectively and causes unpleasant odours. The City uses a small barge-mounted harvester to remove algae every one to two years.

There is no doubt that the fountains play a role in reducing problems with algae and mosquitoes, but not sufficient to effectively manage these issues, given the total surface areas. Physical removal is effective, but only a short-term solution. Herbicides are more effective, but can affect the fish and birds using the ponds, as well as thirsty dogs. Aeration of the ponds with diffuser piping would stimulate the decomposition of the algae and be beneficial to fish; however, installation and operation costs would need to be compared to the current program.

The most effective mechanism to reduce the algae problem is to create a natural buffer around the ponds to reduce the amount of lawn fertilizer and runoff from entering the ponds. It would also serve to deter the geese. Newer retention ponds incorporate this more naturalized look.

Regardless of the role the fountains play in controlling algae, I think it’s important not to downplay the esthetic value they have to Whyte Ridge residents, and we’re pleased that we can continue to enjoy them. 

Nick Barnes is a community correspondent for Whyte Ridge.

Nick Barnes
Whyte Ridge community correspondent

Nick Barnes is a community correspondent for Whyte Ridge.

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