Since 1991, the campus storm water system has employed a series of catch basins and piping to take storm water to a central low point, which is the pond located on the eastern side of the campus. The pond was intended to serve as an evaporative method of releasing campus storm water to the atmosphere, rather than releasing it into the City of Kelowna’s storm water system.
Storm water originates from rain and snow melt, which also carries sediment into the pond. Over the past 20 years, the build up of sediment has caused the deterioration of pond water quality necessitating sediment removal to help maintain the environmental integrity of the pond.
UBC has commissioned a control measure to address the existing condition. This plan will see the construction of a forebay surrounding the inlet pipe, acting as a sediment settling area and allowing future silt removal and servicing. Ecological reviews have been conducted to minimize habitat disturbance of the pond. Construction is slated to begin Feb. 28 and should be completed by end of March.
To find out more contact Facilities Management at 250-807-9272 or Health Safety & Environment at 250-807-8621.
