Floating Wetlands Coming to Stormwater Retention Ponds in Regina

The City of Regina is partnering with the Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds (SAW) and Wascana & Upper Qu’Appelle Watersheds Association Taking Responsibility (WUQWATR) to install six floating treatment wetland islands in the Lakewood, Lakeridge and Rochdale stormwater retention ponds. This initiative is part of a freshwater stewardship project supported by Environment and Climate Change Canada.

“By partnering with organizations like the Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds and WUQWATR, the City is able to bring together local expertise and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Shelley Wellman, Manager of Environmental Services. “Projects like this help support healthier ecosystems and more sustainable neighbourhoods for residents.”

Floating treatment wetlands are floating gardens made up of plants that naturally grow in shallow water. Beneath the floating islands, the plants grow long roots into the water that help clean it.

“The floating wetlands project in the Lakewood, Lakeridge and Rochdale stormwater retention ponds within the City of Regina are a great example of urban best management practices to protect our local water resources, and will provide ecosystem services to the Wascana Creek Watershed,” said Samantha Kerr, Director of Water Resources, Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds (SAW).

As water flows over streets, sidewalks and lawns, it can pick up dirt, nutrients and pollutants and carry them into stormwater retention ponds. Nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen, are important because they help plants grow. However, when too many nutrients build up in the water, they can cause algae to grow quickly and turn the water green. Excessive algae growth can reduce oxygen in the water, create unpleasant smells and make the pond less healthy for wildlife, birds and insects. The wetlands will help improve water quality before it reaches Wascana Creek.

Installation will take place at the end of May and early June, 2026, with support from City employees and local elementary and high school students. The wetlands will remain permanently installed, and water quality in the pond will be monitored monthly over the next five years to help measure the project’s impact.

For more information, visit Regina.ca/StormWater