Wilmer Marsh Clean Up

Spyder Hoe  - Photo by Larry Halverson

The Wilmer Marsh, prior to becoming part of The Columbia National Wildlife Area was historically used as an unofficial dump site. Over the years a significant amount of garbage (including home heating oil tanks, car bodies, tires, paint cans and general household waste) accumulated in the marsh and along the shoreline. Sampling conducted at the site showed levels of contaminants that exceed the applicable federal guidelines.

So this year before the ice melted a clean up was conducted. Approximately 300 m3 of debris was removed from the shore. The excavation of old tires, car parts and contaminated soil was scooped out with a specialized, low-impact, excavator call a Spyder hoe. The debri was then carried by helicopter to a staging area and then transported to the Regional District Landfill for disposal.

Upon completion the shore was restored - backfilled with native topsoil to prevent the introduction of non-native species to the area.

For photos of “People Wortkingh Together: Wilmer Marsh Breakdown“ go to http://www.ec.gc.ca/envirozine/default.asp?lang=En&n=DA4BBC92-1

Staging Area by Larry Halverson

Lots of old tries & vehicle parts By Larry Halverson

Funded by Environment Canada