Victoria Hill Detention Pond

The Victoria Hill Detention Pond was built in 2011 to help manage stormwater in the neighbourhood.

The pond was designed to collect stormwater that runs off roads, sidewalks, and rooftops, and hold onto it for a while. By slowing down the water, the pond helps prevent flooding and gives nature a chance to clean the water. While the water is in the pond, dirt and silt settle to the bottom. Tiny organisms, plants, and algae in the pond also help clean the water by breaking down some of the pollution. This means you might see more algae and green growth--especially in the hot, dry summer--so the water may not always look clear, but these plants and algae are a normal, healthy part of the pond's process.

While these processes are expected, over time, they can affect how well the pond works. To ensure the pond continues to operate efficiently, the City completed a study to assess the pond's current condition and performance.

Why Assess the Pond?

Assessments help us determine if the pond is managing stormwater effectively and protecting the neighbourhood and environment. They also guide how we maintain the pond and alert us early if any repairs or improvements will be needed in the future.

A recent assessment--completed in May 2026--found that while the pond continues to provide adequate flood control and catch sediment well, sediment accumulation and plant overgrowth are beginning to affect the pond's overall performance and contributing to nuisance odours.

Recommended options to address these findings include:

• Removing built-up sediment
• Managing plants within and around the pond
• Finding ways to increase oxygen levels in the water to help improve water quality

Project Timeline

• Completed: A comprehensive assessment of the pond's condition is now complete. The findings indicated that actions are required to restore performance and address odour issues.
• Ongoing: The City is currently evaluating the recommended remediation actions and is developing a plan to move forward.
• Upcoming: Future efforts will focus on implementing the selected remediation actions and creating a formal Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Plan. This proactive approach supports the pond's health and performance over the long term.

Detailed schedules for future work will be determined as the project scope is finalized.