Gimli Lagoons to Wetlands and Riparian Protection
The existing four-cell wastewater treatment lagoon occupies almost 20 ha. The lagoon wastewater system was replaced by a sequencing batch retractor wastewater treatment plant in the late 2000's and the lagoon has not been in operation since then.
In 2010 the RM of Gimli filed a Notice of Alteration to maintain Cell 2 as an emergency equalization basin during extreme precipitation events, and to convert the other three cells into engineered wetlands, giving a new purpose to the lagoon cells.
The Lake Winnipeg Waterfront Interpretive Steering Committee was formed by resolution of council in 2022. A Steering Committee was formed to help guide the process of converting these decommissioned lagoons into healthy costal wetlands with thriving wildlife, ecology, active trails, interpretive center.
In 2023, the land zoning was changed from Agricultural Limited to Open Space Zone to ensure that the wetlands are protected and returned to their natural state prior to the building of the town lagoons in the 1950s.
The next steps of the project will be consultations with the public in 2025.
What is a costal wetland? A low-lying area of land that is saturated with water and located within a costal watershed. A costal watershed is an area that drains into the ocean or inland seas, often edged in muddy, soft ground. Costal wetlands are a vital part of the natural system and provide many benefits to coastal communities. They are home to a variety of plants, and wildlife, and they play a role in reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
