A systems approach to supporting Fraser River ecosystems and industry

The city of Richmond’s Mitchell Island, located in the north arm of the Fraser River, is an important industrial hub with different types of activities: scrapyards, lumber manufacturing, and aggregate and concrete facilities. This industrial activity poses a significant risk of pollutant discharge into the environment, threatening the fragile ecosystem. The Fraser River supports important ecosystems that provide habitat for a variety of fish, wildlife and plant species. It is Canada's most productive salmon river and one of the most important ecosystems for water birds in Canada.

In 2019, Richmond city council endorsed the development of environmental initiatives to improve the situation in the region. This initiated stormwater discharge sampling and monitoring on Mitchell Island to assess the environmental impact on the Fraser River. Several of the monitored parameters were found to exceed national and/or regional water quality guidelines for discharge into the environment.

The feasibility study aims to reduce stormwater runoff total suspended solids by 80%, reach good pH levels and reduce the concentration of other identified pollutants of concern. The study will follow a very thorough process to achieve these objectives, including:

• in-depth assessment and data review to support the development of a systematic approach to address key areas, key industries and overall stormwater quality;
• investigation of environmentally sound treatment with green technologies and green infrastructures;
• best management practices and source control to tackle the problem with alkaline runoff on Mitchell Island; and
• updated policies and bylaws to prevent pollution, source-control practices and engineered treatment measures.

The city of Richmond has also included the participation and support from a wide range of Richmond city departments. This study is fully in line with the city’s sustainable plan and objectives and was done with the collaboration of regional, provincial and federal governments.

Innovative aspect(s):

• A holistic approach that includes upstream identification and modelling to reduce downstream treatment
• An update of policies, bylaws and best management practices

Replicability: Many industrial sites in Canada lack stormwater management plans. The complete analysis and holistic approach used in this study may serve as an example for other municipalities. The study’s methodology is not site-specific, so its solutions and key lessons in terms of policies, treatment, monitoring and stakeholder management could be easily replicated by other municipalities.