Little Sackville River Remediation, Update

The team of federal, provincial and municipal officials investigating the fish kill in the Little Sackville River last week has provided the following update in the ongoing remediation efforts and investigation.

Saturday, July 21:

• Sandbags were placed around the banks of the holding pond to increase its capacity in case it rains as it did on Saturday morning. Readings taken after the rain showed the river's pH level was normal.

• Additional water was pumped from the holding pond after the heavy rain Saturday morning and diverted into the storm sewers that lead to the Mill Cove sewage treatment plant.

• The holding pond, thought to be the source of the unknown contaminates, was dredged beginning Saturday evening.

• A temporary storage cell was manufactured near the holding pond to store the collected sediment for further analysis.

• Water abatement and diversion continued to prevent water from entering the holding pond.

• Additional pH readings were taken regularly in the area.

• Video inspection of the storm and sanitary sewers was conducted.

• Rock and water samples were taken near the site of the demolition near the Downsview Mall.

Sunday, July 22:

• Dredging of the holding pond completed.

• Video inspection of sewer pipes and pH readings continued.

Monday, July 22:

• Exploratory bore holes will be drilled on and near the demolition site adjacent to the Downsview Mall to identify the extent and quality of the material used in the foundation and to identify water flow.

• pH readings are being taken regularly.

• Exploratory excavation of the sanitary and storm drains is being conducted for further analysis of water flow and water quality.