The City of Mississauga was recognized for the success of its "Watercolours Pond Solar Powered Aeration Pilot Project" at the Friends of the Credit Stewardship Forum and Awards Dinner on November 3. The project also earned the City of Mississauga a "Friends of the Credit Conservation Award" from the Credit Valley Conservation for the second straight year.

The pilot project was the first of its kind in Mississauga and was awarded for improving the health of the Credit River.

"Water quality improvements in the pond have a positive impact on fish and other aquatic life in the Credit River," says Lincoln Kan, manager, environmental services for the City of Mississauga. "That's because the pond's storm water drains directly into the Credit River without further treatment."

Kan explained that the City installed a floating solar-powered aerator within the Watercolours Stormwater Management Pond near Mississauga and Lakeshore Roads. The aerator was installed during the summer season to reduce algae growth and improve oxygen levels in the pond.

"This initiative was supported by a public education effort aimed at encouraging area residents to reduce the amount of fertilizer they use on their lawns," says Kan. "Fertilizer promotes algae growth and pollutes the storm water that drains into the City's stormwater ponds."

The City's Environmental Services Section launched the project after the Lorne Park Watercolours Residents' Association raised concerns with City staff about excessive algae growth in the pond.

Mississauga is Canada's sixth largest city with a population of more than 700,000. With well-established infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities, the City is considered to be an employer of choice, delivering quality municipal programs and services to its citizens. Mississauga is a dynamic, diverse and progressive municipality known for its economic strength and for being Canada's safest city.

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