Earl Bales Stormwater Management Pond

The Earl Bales Stormwater Management Pond helps to improve the water quality and increase aquatic habitat in the West Don River.

Key Facts

• One of the largest stormwater management ponds in Canada covering an area of 3.2 hectares and is approximately three metres in depth.
• Has capacity to manage and treat 90% of total annual stormwater runoff from a 550-hectare catchment area that includes residential and industrial development.
  • The area is bounded by Sheppard Avenue to the north, Highway 401 to the south, Downsview Airport to the west, and Avenue Road to the east.
• Helps prevent erosion along 2.5 km of ravine system, protecting the urban forest and sewer infrastructure.
• Blends into the natural environment and provides recreational benefits. Key innovations include using pond water for:
  • Golf course irrigation in the summer
  • Snow-making on the Earl Bales ski hill in the winter
  • Using the pond water for these purposes significantly reduces the practice of withdrawing water from the West Don River.
• The pond is partially funded by the Government of Canada’s Infrastructure Stimulus Fund.