The City of Spruce Grove, Alberta, is installing a new aeration system at its McLaughlin stormwater management facility as part of a pilot project aimed at improving water quality, reducing algae growth, and controlling odours.
The system is expected to be up and running by mid- to late June 2025 at the McLaughlin facility, one of more than 50 stormwater management sites maintained by the city. It will feature both bottom diffusers and a floating fountain designed to circulate water and boost oxygen levels. Increased circulation promotes the decomposition of organic material and helps prevent sediment from building up on the pond floor — a common cause of low oxygen levels and ecosystem disruption, local officials explained.
If the pilot proves successful, the city said similar stormwater aeration systems may be introduced at other facilities, according to the city’s stormwater management web page.
While they look like simple ponds nestled in neighbourhoods, stormwater management facilities (SWMFs) play a critical role in urban infrastructure. In natural landscapes, stormwater is absorbed into the ground. But in developed areas, hard surfaces like roads and rooftops prevent this, directing runoff into storm sewers instead. SWMFs collect this runoff — which may include oils, road salt, fertilizer, and other contaminants — and allow sediment to settle before gradually releasing cleaner water into the watershed. In Spruce Grove, this means contributing to the health of the North Saskatchewan River watershed.
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City officials said these facilities are essential not only for flood prevention, but also for protecting local water quality and supporting urban biodiversity. Many of these areas are designated for naturalization, meaning they are not landscaped or mowed but instead support native wetland plants, shrubs, and grasses that contribute to the health of the system.
During summer, it’s common for algae to appear due to nutrient-rich runoff and warm temperatures. While some algae are beneficial for biological water treatment, excessive growth can cause odour and impact water quality. The city actively monitors and manages water levels and algae conditions to ensure safety and environmental compliance.
Spruce Grove currently operates and maintains approximately 46 wet ponds and seven dry ponds across the city. These facilities are built to handle extreme weather events — including storms with a one percent chance of occurring each year — and must meet strict performance and environmental standards.
