The revival of fish populations in the streams surrounding the former tar ponds and coke ovens locations in Sydney, N.S., is being hailed as a promising development following the extensive cleanup of decades of industrial activity in Cape Breton.
The $400 million remediation project was overseen by the Sydney Tar Ponds Agency, later integrated into Nova Scotia Lands and now under Build Nova Scotia, the organization responsible for monitoring water quality in the streams traversing the former industrial areas.
According to Donnie Burke, a senior official at the agency, data from an independent engineering firm confirms the effectiveness of the remediation efforts.
“Our observations indicate that overall conditions are either stable or improving, which is highly encouraging,” he mentioned during a recent inspection.
The coke ovens site was covered with residual slag from the former steel factory, while the infamous tar ponds, once considered Canada’s most hazardous waste site, were sealed off with concrete.
Coke Ovens Brook, Wash Brook, and Muggah Creek underwent restoration, and the adjacent lands were landscaped to channel surface water into the streams, with groundwater from the coke ovens area routed through a treatment facility before re-entering the streams.
One of several well heads is seen on the former coke ovens site, providing access to test for industrial toxins in groundwater. (Tom Ayers/CBC)
Subsequently, both sites were capped with topsoil and vegetation.
What was formerly the tar ponds is now recognized as Open Hearth Park, featuring sports fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and open areas.
The coke ovens location has been transformed into an open field used for cricket, leisurely walks, and winter snowmobiling.
Burke mentioned that water assessments demonstrate there are no toxins being released from the tar ponds cover.
While occasional spikes in heavy metals or industrial substances occur at the former coke ovens site, particularly after heavy rainfall, the monitoring system detects and adjusts the water treatment process accordingly, he explained.
The Build Nova Scotia office in Sydney is located in Harbourside Industrial Park on reclaimed land situated between the former coke ovens and tar ponds sites. (Tom Ayers/CBC)
“We observe various minor deviations,” Burke stated. “There is slightly more variability here, but overall, stability or improvement has been noted since the installation of the cover.”
Water quality is monitored in the streams and under the former coke ovens cap through an array of wells across the sites.
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