A.E. Wilson Park Soil Testing
Updated July 4, 2023
This April, the City of Regina shared information about soil testing that was completed in the area northwest of the Jack Hamilton Ice Arena within A.E. Wilson Park. The soil testing revealed soil contamination that has the potential to be harmful to people and pets if the soil underneath the vegetation is disturbed, ingested or if there is prolonged contact with skin.
To understand the extent of the soil contamination and determine the risk to the public, additional investigations will occur across the park this summer. This work will be completed by an environmental consultant. Areas included in the investigation will be based on a review of historical reports, air photos, and previous sample results. Sampling will occur across the park.
Investigations will include:
- Shallow soil sampling using hand tools
- A below-ground scan of the soil
- Deeper soil sampling with a backhoe and environmental drill rig
- Groundwater sampling
- Surface water and sediment sampling of Wascana Creek
Disruption to park users will be minimal while the investigations are occurring. Certain areas of the park may be closed to ensure the safety of both the workers and the public.
Following the above work, next steps will be determined based on the results of the investigation and will include a risk assessment report. The City of Regina is committed to keeping the community fully updated as this analysis is completed, and more details become available.
April 6, 2023
Recently conducted soil testing in A.E. Wilson Park has revealed soil contamination in a specific area that has the potential to be harmful to people and pets if the soil underneath the vegetation is disturbed. The contaminants found to be above provincial environmental levels for human health in residential areas include heavy metals and a type of hydrocarbon. The City has reported this information to the Ministry of Environment and will continue to work with them to meet all regulatory requirements.
Out of an abundance of caution, and to help reduce risk to the public, signs and fencing northwest of Jack Hamilton arena in A.E. Wilson Park, will indicate the areas people and pets are advised to avoid at this time. A pathway near the restricted area is safe and will remain open to the public. Pet owners are reminded that A.E. Wilson Park is an on-leash area.
Soil testing in the park had been conducted in preparation for an upcoming construction project. The area where contaminants have been detected aligns with a location used in the 1950’s as a wastewater treatment plant and landfill. The City of Regina will continue testing soil in the park to fully understand the extent of the soil contamination, and the human health and ecological risk, so next steps can be determined.
The City of Regina is committed to keeping the community fully updated as continued analysis is completed, and more details become available.
