Wilmer marsh cleanup

A spider hoe excavates debris from Wilmer marsh as part of an environmental cleanup initiative (Photo by Larry Halverson)

April 15, 2011 — 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 cleanup was conducted. Approximately 300 cubic metres 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 spider hoe. The debris 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