Northlands Storm Pond Rehabilitation

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Aerial view of Northlands Storm Pond in Medicine Hat, Alberta

The Northlands Storm Pond in Viterra Park on Hull Way NE in Crescent Heights is being rejuvenated!

This joint project between three City departments includes maintenance to improve the visual, functional, and ecological aspects of the storm pond.

Improving viewing points and environmental interpretation

Select locations in the pond will receive herbicide treatment to control the growth of cattails in the pond. Crews will use a targeted approach to ensure only specific areas are affected to provide better viewing areas for people wanting to enjoy the environmental aspects of the pond. The application will not negatively affect surrounding vegetation, wildlife, residents or the public.

Controlling aquatic invasive species

Aquatic invasive species include non-native aquatic animals, plants or insects which have been brought into our ponds and waterways and negatively impact biodiversity. They can threaten native species, impact water quality and reduce recreational use of water bodies.

A small number of goldfish were released into the Northlands Storm Pond and have multiplied into a significant population. Goldfish have few natural predators and outcompete any other species in the area, creating an unbalanced and unhealthy ecosystem, which is why it is illegal to release ornamental fish into the wild.

A qualified professional biologist will administer the licensed pesticide called Rotenone once the water level in the pond has been lowered. This pesticide targets the species without causing harm to the pond or other area species and wildlife.

For more information about Rotenone, the project in general, or even guidance on responsible alternatives for pet owners who intend to dispose of pet fish, please see the FAQ section on this page.

Storm system maintenance

While the water level is drawn down in the pond, crews will also inspect and maintain the functional infrastructure related to the storm water management system.

The Northlands Storm Pond in Viterra Park on Hull Way NE in Crescent Heights is being rejuvenated!

This joint project between three City departments includes maintenance to improve the visual, functional, and ecological aspects of the storm pond.

Improving viewing points and environmental interpretation

Select locations in the pond will receive herbicide treatment to control the growth of cattails in the pond. Crews will use a targeted approach to ensure only specific areas are affected to provide better viewing areas for people wanting to enjoy the environmental aspects of the pond. The application will not negatively affect surrounding vegetation, wildlife, residents or the public.

Controlling aquatic invasive species

Aquatic invasive species include non-native aquatic animals, plants or insects which have been brought into our ponds and waterways and negatively impact biodiversity. They can threaten native species, impact water quality and reduce recreational use of water bodies.

A small number of goldfish were released into the Northlands Storm Pond and have multiplied into a significant population. Goldfish have few natural predators and outcompete any other species in the area, creating an unbalanced and unhealthy ecosystem, which is why it is illegal to release ornamental fish into the wild.

A qualified professional biologist will administer the licensed pesticide called Rotenone once the water level in the pond has been lowered. This pesticide targets the species without causing harm to the pond or other area species and wildlife.

For more information about Rotenone, the project in general, or even guidance on responsible alternatives for pet owners who intend to dispose of pet fish, please see the FAQ section on this page.

Storm system maintenance

While the water level is drawn down in the pond, crews will also inspect and maintain the functional infrastructure related to the storm water management system.

Submit a question to our Project Manager

We understand that work in your local park or area near your home may present questions or concerns. Feel free to submit your question to our project manager.

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  • Share There is a young female Redhead (duck) that hatched late and is alone. She has been staying close with the female mallards and we assume she will leave with them in the fall. I am concerned if the lowering water level drives the mallards out, the female redhead may be unable to leave, as she isn’t flying (as of yesterday). I just wanted the appropriate people to be aware to possibly consider moving to her to Connaught or another busy pond if she ends up left alone while unable to fly. on Facebook Share There is a young female Redhead (duck) that hatched late and is alone. She has been staying close with the female mallards and we assume she will leave with them in the fall. I am concerned if the lowering water level drives the mallards out, the female redhead may be unable to leave, as she isn’t flying (as of yesterday). I just wanted the appropriate people to be aware to possibly consider moving to her to Connaught or another busy pond if she ends up left alone while unable to fly. on Twitter Share There is a young female Redhead (duck) that hatched late and is alone. She has been staying close with the female mallards and we assume she will leave with them in the fall. I am concerned if the lowering water level drives the mallards out, the female redhead may be unable to leave, as she isn’t flying (as of yesterday). I just wanted the appropriate people to be aware to possibly consider moving to her to Connaught or another busy pond if she ends up left alone while unable to fly. on Linkedin Email There is a young female Redhead (duck) that hatched late and is alone. She has been staying close with the female mallards and we assume she will leave with them in the fall. I am concerned if the lowering water level drives the mallards out, the female redhead may be unable to leave, as she isn’t flying (as of yesterday). I just wanted the appropriate people to be aware to possibly consider moving to her to Connaught or another busy pond if she ends up left alone while unable to fly. link

    There is a young female Redhead (duck) that hatched late and is alone. She has been staying close with the female mallards and we assume she will leave with them in the fall. I am concerned if the lowering water level drives the mallards out, the female redhead may be unable to leave, as she isn’t flying (as of yesterday). I just wanted the appropriate people to be aware to possibly consider moving to her to Connaught or another busy pond if she ends up left alone while unable to fly.

    Elesha7 asked over 1 year ago

    Thank you for your concern for our pond inhabitants! Our crews visited the pond on both August 25 and August 29 to specifically look for the female duck you reported. On both occasions, staff were unable to locate any ducks at all.

    It is worth noting that there will be approximately 1 to 1.5 metres of water left in the pond for the entire rehabilitation period, so native waterfowl will still be able to inhabit the area, though will likely be annoyed by the disturbance and may choose to move on. 

    duck,pond
    duck pond
Page last updated: 26 Oct 2023, 04:32 PM