Last summer, the Gorge Swim Fest had to be cancelled after there was a sewage spill into a creek that leads into the Gorge Waterway.
The Township of Esquimalt has been investigating the leak ever since, and has just found the source of contamination at the upper end of the collection system.
It was caused by a cross connection – wastewater meant to go through sewer pipes was unintentionally directed through storm water pipes instead.
Containing the contamination
Based on constant monitoring and the results of recent tests, the Township has determined that there has been a significant decrease in the level of contamination in Gorge Creek.
Although the storm water collection system will continue to be monitored for the next few weeks, authorities have decided to resume normal operations of the system.
As a reminder, the Township has mentioned that all waste products that find their way into the sanitary or storm water collection systems will eventually reach water bodies and harm the local ecosystems.
So if you notice a sewage leak on a municipal road or waterway, report it by calling the Provincial Spill Line at 1-800-663-3456 so that it can be contained right away!
