Stormwater Management System

The purpose of a municipal stormwater system is to collect, convey and discharge stormwater runoff to the natural environment in a safe and controlled manner. A municipal stormwater system consists of service connection pipes, catchbasins, mainline sewers, manholes, culverts and stormwater management ponds.

The stormwater systems are located throughout the County with the largest systems being in Paris, St. George and Cainsville. They include:

Culverts

A stormwater culvert is a structure that allows water to be moved under a road, entrance, or similar area. Culverts are not permitted to be installed to facilitate the installation of piping under a roadway (example irrigation piping).

Storm Sewers

Storm sewers are pipes that convey surface water runoff from rain and melting snow and discharges it to stormwater management ponds or natural bodies of water (ie. river).

Stormwater service connection

A stormwater service connection connects a private property to the municipal stormwater system. Stormwater Service connections for individual residential properties are only allowed under special circumstances and must be approved by the County.

Stormwater Management Ponds

A stormwater pond collects and stores excess storm water to prevent flooding. These ponds are not constructed for public use. Do not allow children or pets near stormwater ponds.

Stormwater ponds are designed with inlets for stormwater to enter during high rainfall events and outlets to slowly release excess water afterwards.

Stormwater pond maintenance

The County of Brant maintains 23 stormwater management ponds located in Burford, Oakland, Paris, Scotland and St George.

The County's role in pond maintenance includes:

Removal of sediments
Removal of debris in and around the pond
Maintenance of structures such as gates and valves
Maintenance of surrounding vegetation and plants
Vegetation replacement
Bank stabilization to prevent erosion
Pond monitoring

Frequently asked questions

Why are stormwater ponds important?

Ponds store excess rainfall during large storms to prevent flooding of basements and homes
Ponds help to settle sediments and other contaminants
The naturalized edges of the ponds create habitat for wildlife, birds and insects.

Why is the water in the stormwater pond poor quality?

Fertilizer use results in excess nutrients causing smelly algal blooms and undesirable weed growth
Excess algae reduces the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water making it difficult for aquatic species to live. This also intensifies water odour
Bacteria from animal waste along with other contaminants are health hazards to humans and pets

Why can't I skate or play on a frozen stormwater pond?

The ponds collect runoff and because of the constant flow, they never fully freeze
Fluctuating water levels can make the top layer of ice extremely unstable, as can salt from the roads

The County of Brant regulates the discharge of materials to municipal and private storm sewer systems. This is to protect water quality by preventing the discharge of harmful substances to municipal and private storm systems and ultimately to water bodies within the County.

Discharges that do not meet the requirements outlined in the Storm Sewer Use ByLaw (PDF) may have serious consequences for public health and safety, municipal infrastructure and the environment.

Stormwater Awareness Week

Stormwater Awareness Week, September 23 to 27, 2024, is an initiative aimed at educating the public about the importance of managing stormwater and its impact on the environment, communities, and infrastructure. The goal is to raise awareness about the role individuals and communities play in reducing stormwater pollution, preventing flooding, and protecting water quality for the benefit of both the environment and County of Brant residents. Follow us on social media for daily information and tips. #StormwaterAwarenessWeekBrant