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.

