Stormwater Ponds not for Recreational Use

Stormwater Ponds not for Recreational Use 

The Town of Shelburne Public Works is reminding people to stay off stormwater ponds. Extreme caution should be taken when around stormwater management ponds. The Town of Shelburne has 12 stormwater management ponds, which store and treat rainwater. Stormwater ponds are designed to prevent flooding, erosion and improve the quality of water before it is gradually released back into the nearest stream or river.

With many activities postponed due to COVID 19, people are looking for outdoor activities. The ponds may look safe and appeal to skaters and for other recreational activities, but they are unsafe. It’s what's below the surface that makes storm water ponds different from regular ponds, this combined with melting snow and contaminants such as de-icing salts, result in water flow and levels which can change quickly without warning, impeding the formation of reliable, safe ice. 

Due to the recent tragedy in Southern Ontario, the Town urges residents to stay off stormwater ponds for any type of recreational use. The Town’s by-law department will continue to monitor and enforce those participating in any activities on the Stormwater ponds in Shelburne.