City begins repairs on Sandra Schmirler retention pond

The City of Regina began to drain water from the Sandra Schmirler retention pond for repairs.

The retention pond will be drained of nearly all its water so crews can repair control valves located near the bottom of the pond. The water will be released at a controlled rate into storm drains and will make its way into Wascana Creek.

A retention pond is used to collect and store rainfall runoff and the valves control the flow of water into storm drains. The city says the Sandra Schmirler retention pond is currently at a high level and the repair will help prevent possible flooding in the spring.

A slight odour might be noticeable in spring as melted snow mixes with the stagnant water, but it is expected that the pond should naturally refill quickly.

Draining the pond will take around two days and the repair work is expected to be completed by the long weekend, depending on weather.

The City of Regina is asking the public to stay out of the work area.