Catch Basin Monitoring Program

Overview

In support of the Town’s commitment to environmental sustainability and in partnership with the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA), a pilot program was initiated to purchase, install and monitor a small number of catch basin filter devices within the Jackson’s Point area. The catch basin filters, also known as a pre-treatment device, capture trash, debris and sediment that is swept up and carried by stormwater run-off. The pilot program began in November of 2023 and was completed in July of 2025.

After installation, catch basin filters are periodically emptied and the captured materials are disposed of in a landfill. By intercepting these materials, catch basin filters reduce the quantity of pollutants (including phosphorous) that would otherwise enter stormwater ponds, nearby watercourses and ultimately Lake Simcoe. High levels of phosphorous and other nutrients in water bodies are known to contribute to adverse effects such as excessive algae growth, lower dissolved oxygen content, negative impacts on fish populations, reduced water clarity and unpleasant odours. Interception and proper disposal of the captured materials offers both environmental and operational benefits.

Program summary and conclusions

Council received Report No. OID-2025-0020 prepared by the Capital Delivery Division, Operations and Infrastructure Department on Nov. 5 2025, providing the outcome of the Town’s catch basin filters pilot program, including relevant information for Council to consider continuation of the program as a Lake Simcoe pollution prevention tool.

The Town recently received the Healthy Water Award from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority for conducting the catch basin filters pilot program. The award is presented to individuals and groups who have completed a project that improves, supports or protects the water quality in the Lake Simcoe watershed.

Partnering with LSRCA brought important resources and expertise to bear to allow the Town’s catch basin filters pilot program to succeed.

The pilot program demonstrated that significant environmental benefits can be achieved from use of catch basin filters. The study also yielded reliable information to understand the operational and maintenance requirements associated with catch basin filters. These findings provide a compelling rationale for expanding the program beyond Jackson’s Point. By installing more catch basin filter inserts, the Town can cost-effectively improve water quality protection.