The City of Ottawa is moving forward with improvements to the Morgan’s Grant (Statewood) stormwater management pond, originally built in 2006. The pond consists of upper and lower cells that operate at different water levels and are separated by a retaining wall made of armour stones. This facility helps manage rainwater from the surrounding neighbourhood, improving water quality and controlling flows to protect the downstream sewer system.
Over time, staff observed that the water level in the pond’s upper cell has been consistently lower than expected. Despite past efforts to address this, the issue persisted. The City retained engineering consultants to better understand what was happening and to explore potential solutions.
The study confirmed that water from the upper portion of the pond is naturally seeping into the ground and into the lower cell, due to local soil and groundwater conditions. While this means the upper cell does not maintain its original design water level, it is still functioning effectively, actually providing enhanced water quality treatment by allowing more runoff to filter naturally into the ground. This also helps reduce pressure on the downstream sewer system.
Several options were reviewed, including installing a new liner or converting the upper cell into a dry pond or a wetland. However, these alternatives would be costly, add maintenance challenges, or risk affecting existing structures. Based on this review, the preferred option is to keep the pond as it is today.
To further improve the site, the City will be undertaking a series of small upgrades, including:
- Minor modifications to the concrete outlet structure to further improve water quality treatment in the lower cell
- A new gate and ramp to support maintenance access from Statwood Drive
- Installation of safety railings along the stone wall
- Landscaping enhancements, including potential new plantings, informed by community input
Work is expected to begin later this summer and may continue into next year. Some minor noise and increased activity can be expected during construction, but only for a limited duration.
The City will be reaching out to nearby residents in the coming weeks to gather input on the proposed landscaping improvements and ensure the final design reflects community preferences.