The Stormwater Management service provides the collection and diversion of stormwater, including operations, maintenance, asset management, planning of associated infrastructure, and capital projects in Collingwood.
Stormwater Management Ponds (SWMPs)
Stormwater Management Ponds (SWMPs) are an important part of Collingwood's stormwater infrastructure system. These engineered facilities help manage stormwater runoff, improve water quality, reduce flooding risks, and protect local waterways and ecosystems.
The information below explains how Stormwater Management Ponds function, why they are needed, how they are maintained, and how residents can help protect them.
Why are Stormwater Management Ponds Important?
In natural environments, rainwater and snowmelt are able to:
- Soak into the ground
- Be absorbed by trees and vegitation
- Evaporate into the air
- Slowly flow into nearby stream, lakes, rivers, and wetlands
This natual process helps control water flow and filter pollutants before water reaches local waterways.
In developed areas, surfaces such as roads, buildings, parking lots, and driveways preventwater from naturally soaking into the ground.
Instead, stormwater travels quickly across paved surfaces as runoff, carrying pollutants and debris such as:
- Dirt and sediment
- Fertilizers containing phosphorus and nitrogen
- Grass clippings and leaves
- Litter and cigarette butts
Without proper stormwater management infrastucture, runoff can contribute to flooding, erosion, and declining water quality.
Stormwater Management Ponds (SWMPs) are designed to temporarily collect runoff from the local storm sewer system following rainfall, snowmelt, lawn watering, and other outdoor water activities.
The ponds hold stormwater long enough to allow sediment and pollutants to settle before the water is gradually released back into nearby waterways.
How Do Stormwater Management Ponds Help?
Flood and Erosion Control
Stormwater Management Ponds help regulate the flow of water entering nearby stream and creeks.
Without these ponds, large amounts of water could enter waterways too quickly, increasing the risk of:
Flooding
Stream bank erosion
Impacts to aquatic habitats
Each pond contains inlet and outlet structures that help control the movement of water through the system.
Water Quality Improvement
Stormwater Management Ponds improve water quality by allowing sediment and pollutants to settle before water is released into the environment.
Vegetated buffer areas surronding the ponds also help filter runoff and support healthier ecosystems.
Maintenance of Stormwater Management Ponds
Safety Around Stormwater Management Ponds
Stormwater Management Ponds are not designed or intended for recreational water use.
For public health and safety, the following activites are prohibited:
- Swimming or wading
- Skating
- Boating
- Fishing
Safety and warning signs are posted around pond facilities to inform the public of prohibited activities and potential hazards, including rapidly changing water levels.
To protect the ponds and surrounding ecosystems, the following activities are also prohibited:
- Fish stocking
- Unauthorized planting or removal of vegetation
- Dumping of materials or debris
Residents are asked to follow all posted sinage and use surrounding amenity areas responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
2025 Annual Stormwater Management System Performance Report
The Town of Collingwood prepares an annual Stormwater Management Report that provides an overview of stormwater system operations, maintenance activities, inspections, infrastructure improvements, and ongoing initiatives completed throughout the year which support environmental protection and long-term infrastructure management.
Stormwater Management Master Plan