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EMC News – The Ottawa River Action Plan centered on reducing combined sewer overflows into the Ottawa River has resulted in amazing results.
Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson and River ward Coun. Maria McRae announced the startegic plan reduced sewage overflow by more than half at 65 per cent.
This means compared to 2006 with more than one million cubic metres of raw sewage going into the Ottawa River, the 2010 report of 424,000 cubic metres is impressive and this year’s figures should prove to be even better according to Coun. McRae and Mayor Watson.
“The Real Time Control system has provided exciting results.
The citizens of Ottawa have made it known the environment is a priority so we are spending tax dollars on their priorities,” said Coun. McCrae.
“Just as roads and buildings are important so is the environment.
“We’re ensuring this city will thrive and this is good news for those who use recreationally use the river.”
The significant results were reported during a year where there was above average rainfall during April to November 2010 which would mean this system can handle fluctuations and still remain efficient and viable.
“I’m encouraged by the positive results but we need to still keep up the good work,” said Mayor Watson.
“In less than two years we will begin to build the underground storage tank system which will bring even better results.
“Ottawa is a shining example of a modern progressive city that can be environmentally stable.
This way we will leave a better city for our grandchildren.”
Gatineau Mayor Marc Bureau has been approached by Mayor Watson to work collaboratively to combat pollution in the region as, “pollution doesn’t respect boundaries.”
They will be meeting this September to discuss their environmental initiatives.
© 2009 – 2011 Ottawa South EMC.