Lagoon Sludge Removal Project

The Municipality will begin the aeration system trial on September 8, 2026, with both blowers operating simultaneously. The trial is expected to run for approximately 14–21 days while staff monitor treatment performance, dissolved oxygen, air quality and odour conditions.

Sludge removal is anticipated to begin October 5, 2026, and is expected to take approximately nine weeks, with contractors working six days per week. The sludge removal will take place in one of the larger back ponds, which does not have an aeration system.

Whether the aeration blowers remain operating during sludge removal will depend on the results of the September aeration trial.

Staff will evaluate the aeration system over approximately 14–21 days by monitoring dissolved oxygen levels, treatment performance and odour conditions.

Current dissolved oxygen levels are approximately 0.20 mg/L. The system was designed to achieve approximately 1.5–2.0 mg/L or greater. Third-party laboratory testing will also be used to assess treatment performance.

The goal is to see improved dissolved oxygen and treatment results, along with reduced odour impacts. If the desired improvements are not achieved, the system may be shut down and staff will consult with technical experts and the equipment supplier to determine next steps.

The Municipality recognizes the impact that lagoon odours can have on nearby residents. The September aeration trial is intended to improve treatment conditions and reduce odour impacts over the longer term.

Sodium nitrate will also be applied between September 9 and 10 to support the treatment process and help reduce odours during the trial. A second application may be used later in September if required.

Staff will monitor air quality and odour conditions during the aeration trial. During sludge removal, the contractor will use equipment capable of measuring and recording volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for analysis and reporting.

Residents are encouraged to report odour concerns through the Municipality's Service Request process. These reports help staff document and track conditions alongside the monitoring being conducted throughout the project.

The Municipality is currently undertaking a sludge removal project at the Kincardine wastewater lagoons. During this work, sludge that has accumulated over many decades is disturbed and removed from the lagoon system. This process can create strong and unpleasant odours, particularly during warm weather and certain wind conditions.

Warmer temperatures increase biological activity within the lagoon system. As organic material breaks down, gases can be released, which may result in noticeable odours. Wind direction, humidity, and atmospheric conditions can also influence how odours are experienced in nearby areas.

The Municipality takes public health and safety seriously and understands residents' concerns about these odours. While the odours are unpleasant, the Municipality has not identified any information to suggest they pose a risk to public safety. Staff use gas monitoring equipment as part of regular safety procedures, and no concerns have been identified.

As part of the sludge removal process, odours are released and can be carried by the wind, making them noticeable in surrounding areas which is why residents may notice them. While the odours can be unpleasant, outdoor air movement also helps disperse them and prevents gases from accumulating in one location.

The Municipality continues to monitor conditions, review resident concerns, and work with project partners throughout the sludge removal process. If any risk to public health or safety is identified, the Municipality will take appropriate action and communicate promptly with residents. Protecting the health and safety of residents remains a top priority.

Over time, sludge naturally builds up in wastewater lagoons and must be removed to maintain treatment capacity and system performance. Some lagoon cells have not had sludge removed for many years, and the accumulated material is now taking up a significant portion of the lagoon capacity.

Removing the sludge is necessary to improve the operation of the wastewater treatment system and support its long-term performance.

Yes. The Ministry is aware of the ongoing wastewater lagoon improvement work and the Municipality's efforts to restore the system and improve performance.

Residents who have concerns are always welcome to contact the local Ministry office directly.

Individual odour events are not required to be reported to the Ministry. However, the Municipality documents operational issues and includes required information in annual reports submitted to the Ministry.

Municipal staff and project partners are actively working to reduce odours where possible through operational adjustments, additional aeration, and the evaluation of other treatment options. Staff continue to monitor site conditions and work with engineers and contractors to identify opportunities for improvement.

Sodium nitrate will be applied to the front pond between September 9 and 10 to help reduce odours during the trial.

The lagoon system was built in the 1960s, long before many of the surrounding residential neighbourhoods were developed.

The odour issues are also related to the accumulation of sludge over many decades. The current sludge removal project is addressing long-standing infrastructure and maintenance challenges that cannot be resolved overnight.

The sludge removal program is a significant, multi-year investment. Approximately $750,000 of work is being completed this year, with additional sludge removal projects planned over the next two years.

The Municipality is removing as much material as practical each year to restore lagoon capacity and improve system performance.

The Municipality is beginning long-range planning for the future of the Municipality of Kincardine's wastewater treatment system. Staff will be working with engineering consultants and Council to evaluate future treatment options, infrastructure needs, and long-term investments required to support the community as it grows.

The current sludge removal project is an important first step in restoring the existing system and improving compliance and performance.