Storm ponds may look natural and like a great place for summer fun, but they are man-made stormwater treatment facilities and can be dangerous.
Storm Ponds Have Important Work to Do!
Storm ponds protect our rivers by helping remove sediment, fertilizer, animal feces, pesticides, and other pollutants. They also protect our communities from flooding.
Runoff from rain or melting snow, also called stormwater, washes through the community, collecting dirt, gravel, and pollutants along the way. After washing into storm drains, stormwater travels through underground pipes to storm ponds.
By capturing and holding stormwater, storm ponds slow the flow down, allowing sediment and contaminants to settle at the bottom of the pond. The improved water is then slowly released to our rivers, creeks, and streams.
Keep Your Family and Pets Safe Around Storm Ponds
Storm ponds are not safe for recreational purposes. They can be very deep, and because of the potential for rapidly changing water levels (from inlet and outlet pipes), poor water quality, and soft, muddy bottoms, a storm pond should never be used for recreational purposes.
Keep your family and pets safe. Stay out of the water. Water contact of any kind, including swimming, wading, and boating, is dangerous and strictly prohibited. Keep your pets on leashes and away from the water for their health and safety.
Find out more at calgary.ca/stormpondsafety.
