Richmond Lagoons Update

The City of Ottawa is enhancing community safety measures around the Richmond Lagoon. The Lagoon is an active storm and wastewater facility that helps manage excess water, particularly during heavy rainfalls and maintenance activities.

About the Richmond Lagoon:

• Purpose: Built in the 1970s, the Lagoon temporarily stores untreated rainwater and raw sewage.

• Function: Rainwater is stored in Lagoon #2 and #3. Lagoon #1 is used to temporarily store raw sewage when capacity in the sanitary sewer is limited or during routine maintenance.

Safety Reminder:

Direct exposure to untreated water in the Lagoon poses health risks from waterborne diseases. Recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and skating are strictly prohibited for the safety of residents and pets.

Upcoming Enhancements:

• New Gates and Signage:

• Gates will restrict access to the active northern Lagoons (marked #1 and #2).

• Signage (marked by No Pedestrian Access symbols) will highlight health and safety risks.

• Pedestrian and parking access will remain open for the southernmost Lagoon on the site (marked #3).

• Rideau Trail Access: While motor vehicle access will be restricted, through-hiking and birdwatching will remain unaffected.

Community Responsibility:

For everyone’s well-being, please respect posted signs and avoid entering restricted areas. If you have questions or concerns, contact 3-1-1.

Thank you for helping maintain a safe community.