Stormwater Management

Innerkip

• Burton Street/Innerkip Park – wet pond facility
• Jonker Street – constructed wetland

Tavistock

• 14th Line – constructed wetland
• Dietrich Road – dry pond facility
• Halliday Drive – constructed wetland
• Jacob Street West – constructed wetland
• Janelle Drive – dry pond facility

Is it safe to play in a stormwater pond?

No. Stormwater facilities are not designed for recreation. Never play in or around a stormwater pond.

• Stormwater ponds are often deeper than they appear. Water depth is sometimes more than 2 metres (6.5 feet).
• Water levels can change quickly and without notice.
• There is sometimes a thick layer of sediment at the bottom of the pond.
• Stormwater ponds are designed to retain contaminants.
• Ice thickness varies because water is constantly flowing. Never skate or play hockey on a frozen stormwater pond.

Why is the grass so long?

Long grasses are often part of the engineered design of stormwater management facilities and swales. Long grass acts as a natural filter, helping improve water quality and helping the system function properly. Stormwater management facilities and swales are not maintained as parks because they are constructed infrastructure.

If you have a concern about long grass in a facility please reach out to our office. All maintenance will be completed by the Township or designated contractor; do not complete any maintenance of a Township facility on your own.

Can I change the grade of my lot?

Altering the grade of your lot in any way is not permitted. The grading of your lot impacts the overall flow pattern in the subdivision. Please contact our Operations Technologist if you have a concern about your lot grading.

Can I use the swale or dry pond for storage?

No. Never build or store items in a swale or stormwater management facility. It may seem harmless building a shed or storing a campfire pit in a swale or dry pond, it is important to remember these facilities are designed to protect our community during large rainfall events.

Placing any items in a swale or dry pond can cause a blockage and lead to system failure during a large storm.

How can I help?

Small actions can create a positive impact on our stormwater system. Here are some ways you can help:

• Install a rain barrel, which are available for purchase from Oxford County
• Direct downspouts onto your lawn, not the road or sidewalk
• Always clean up your pet's waste
• Minimize your use of pesticides and fertilizers
• Avoid excess salting, only use the salt that is needed in the winter
• Dispose of hazardous waste at designated disposal sites only
• Never release domestic pets into our system
• Keep catch basins clear

Remember, only rain down the drain.