Steve Jackson, Project Engineer and Kelly Vader, Environmental Planner with B.M. Ross and Associates Limited presented the Stormwater Servicing Master Plan for Northern Point Clark.
B.M. Ross presented the Stormwater Servicing Master Plan for Northern Point Clark. The study focuses on Township-owned lands, evaluating drainage issues and potential solutions. Two key problem areas were identified: the north, where runoff causes flooding and existing drainage infrastructure is undersized, and the south, where insufficient drainage is impacting residential septic systems and causing flooding in low-lying areas.
Groundwater investigations, which included monitoring groundwater levels across five test sites, revealed that elevated groundwater levels throughout much of the year make stormwater infiltration difficult. Guidelines from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) require stormwater facilities to be at least 1 metre above average groundwater levels, further limiting infiltration options.
B.M. Ross provided recommendations for addressing the problem areas, with an estimated costs for each recommendation and emphasized that the Master Plan is intended to be implemented over a number of years in different phases. The plan provides a roadmap to make projects ready for construction or grant opportunities.
Next steps include selecting preferred alternatives, finalizing the Master Plan, and publishing it for a 30-day review period. Council will then consider adopting the plan, after which engineering designs for the initial phase of implementation will be completed, and necessary approvals will be obtained. Adoption of the plan will provide a framework for potential future projects and grant applications.
B.M.Ross outlined the study investigations that were conducted which included groundwater investigations, identifying existing infrastructure, and reviewing LiDAR data. LiDar is a remote sensing technique that uses lasers to measure features on the ground. Jackson provided Council with information on how the groundwater investigations were conducted, and how B.M. Ross used that information to develop recommendations. Existing infrastructure was identified and assessed to determine how effectively it was currently working. Input from local residents was included in this assessment, as well as the LiDar data, and on-site observations.
Council inquired about the natural watercourse near St. Arnaud street and if the water storage area would be proposed in this area. B.M.Ross clarified that water storage would be in the table lands, in agricultural lands not within the urban area. 3500 cubic meters of storage capacity is required.
Jackson confirmed that BM Ross is not proposing that the work be done under the Drainage Act, and therefore works done on private property would need to have resident approval and an easement agreement.
B.M. Ross provided recommendations on how the identified issues could potentially be resolved, with anticipated costing on each alternative.
Jackson reminded Council that new infrastructure would have to conform to current standards when installed, typically requiring an increase in sizing of pipes. Additionally, based on current boundaries, some intensification and current in-fill lots will all fit within the proposed infrastructure.
Council inquired about water coming from agricultural lands and asked B.M. Ross to speculate on how tiling on agriculture lands has impacted this urban area.
Previous research shows tile drainage creates a storage area, and minimizes flows as it provides a catchment area for most normal storm events. Jackson was not aware of current research in this area to definitively indicate whether it had positive, negative or neutral impacts.
B.M.Ross noted that this stormwater management plan was designed for a 25 year storm within the proposed pipes because there are not existing roadway paths to move water. Typically this is designed for a 5 year storm rating within the pipes.
B.M. Ross confirmed that works would be constructed on existing property owned by the Township excluding any berms on agricultural property.
Council inquired about the nature of the problem within the southern identified area. B.M.Ross identified the intent to allow affected properties to drain onto roads, providing an outlet for urban areas. These properties need to drain to allow septic systems to function properly, and to allow the properties in these areas to drain properly. Jackson noted that fixing drainage issues on your property without a proper outlet just moves the water onto neighboring properties, creating new problems and does not solve the overall drainage issue.
Council will consider adoption of the Plan at a later date.