Lagoon Sludge Removal Project Update – Aeration System Trial - September 18, 2026

Staff continue to monitor the lagoon aeration system, with both blowers operating. The trial is now on day ten.

Dissolved oxygen (DO) levels remain low, with no significant improvement observed to date. Staff had anticipated seeing some improvement by this stage but have not yet seen the expected changes.

Odours around the lagoon site have improved significantly following the sodium nitrate application. Staff have no concerns with gases around the ponds, and no readings have been recorded on handheld air quality monitoring units.

Laboratory analysis results are beginning to come in, with current results from samples collected around September 9. Lab results typically take 7–8 days from sample collection. These results show a significant spike in Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels in the front pond, coinciding with the aeration system start-up. This was anticipated, as start-up stirred up accumulated material in the pond. Staff expect conditions to take several days to settle and stabilize.

Samples collected this Tuesday, September 15, are expected to provide further information, with results anticipated for next Friday’s report. Staff will continue operating the aeration system and monitoring conditions and results as the trial progresses.

The aeration system trial is expected to run for approximately 14 to 21 days. We are at day 10. 

Updates on the Lagoon Sludge Removal Project will be posted every Tuesday and Friday throughout the aeration trial. Residents can also subscribe to receive project updates directly to their inbox.

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