On April 29, a concerning discharge into Scott Creek was identified and quickly reported thanks to the vigilance of a Hoy/Scott Watershed Society volunteer.
At approximately 12:00 p.m., a milky white substance was observed entering the creek from a stormwater outfall along Runnel Drive, just west of Lansdowne Drive. The spill was promptly reported to the City of Coquitlam, whose Environment Division responded quickly to investigate.
City Investigation Summary
City staff conducted on-site testing of the discharge, which showed a neutral pH of approximately 7.5 and low turbidity. While the appearance of the discharge was unusual, these initial results suggested that the substance was not immediately harmful to aquatic life.
An extensive investigation followed, with staff from both Environment and Public Works divisions surveying the surrounding catchment area. This included Burnside Place, Creekside Drive, Eagleridge Drive, and neighbourhoods north of Guildford Way along Lansdowne Drive. Crews looked for potential sources such as power washing runoff, paint discharge, or other contaminants, but no clear origin was identified.
During the investigation, the affected section of the creek began to return to normal clarity.
Additional Observation
Later in the afternoon, staff also observed a brief release of darker, turbid water entering Scott Creek from a second outfall further west along Runnel Drive, across from a local business. This discharge was short-lived, and the creek downstream remained clear.
Nearby contractors were observed completing roof debris clearing work. While no direct link was confirmed, City staff took the opportunity to provide education on proper practices—specifically, ensuring that wash water, sediment, and debris are kept out of storm drains, which flow directly into fish-bearing waterways like Scott Creek.
The City concluded its investigation at approximately 1:45 p.m.
The Importance of Community Reporting
This incident highlights the critical role that community members and volunteers play in protecting our local environment. Quick reporting allows for rapid response, assessment, and mitigation—helping to safeguard sensitive ecosystems and the species that depend on them.
The Hoy/Scott Watershed Society encourages anyone who observes unusual discharges, pollution, or environmental concerns in local waterways to report them immediately to the City. Learn more.
Together, through awareness and action, we can continue to protect and preserve the health of our creeks and watershed.