Fish have begun to repopulate the streams surrounding the former tar ponds and coke ovens areas in Sydney, N.S., signaling a positive outcome following the remediation of a century of steel and coal industry activities in Cape Breton. The $400 million cleanup, overseen by the Sydney Tar Ponds Agency, which later merged into Nova Scotia Lands and now operates under Build Nova Scotia, has resulted in improved water quality in the streams traversing the former industrial zones.
Donnie Burke, a senior director at the agency, expressed satisfaction with the findings of an independent engineering firm, indicating that the remediation efforts have been effective. Burke highlighted that current observations show stable or enhancing trends, marking a significant achievement.
The remediation involved covering the coke ovens ground with residual slag rock from the former steel plant and sealing the tar ponds, formerly recognized as Canada’s most hazardous waste site, with concrete. Additionally, Coke Ovens Brook, Wash Brook, and Muggah Creek underwent cleanup processes, with the surrounding areas landscaped to direct surface water into the streams. Groundwater from the coke ovens site is channeled to a treatment facility before being reintroduced into the streams.
Both locations were then capped with topsoil and grass, transforming the former tar ponds into Open Hearth Park, featuring recreational facilities like football and soccer fields, playgrounds, and walking paths. The coke ovens site has been repurposed as an open field for activities such as cricket, walking, and winter snowmobiling.
Water testing has confirmed that the tar ponds cap is not releasing toxins, and although occasional spikes in heavy metals or industrial chemicals occur at the coke ovens site post-heavy rainfall, the monitoring system promptly identifies and adjusts the water treatment accordingly.
Burke emphasized the overall stability and improvement since the implementation of the covers. Ongoing water testing through wells strategically placed around the sites continues to ensure environmental safety.
A recent study conducted by Cape Breton University revealed the return of a small fish species to the streams, with provincial staff spotting trout eggs and fry in Coke Ovens Brook. Dr. Katherine Jones, a CBU biologist, noted a positive change in the health of mummichog fish residing in the former tar ponds, with significant improvements in their overall condition post-remediation.
Jones highlighted the need for further studies to assess the impact on local fish populations, including DNA testing to determine their origin. The government’s commitment to monitoring the sites for 25 years after cleanup, with regular updates available on the Build Nova Scotia website, ensures ongoing environmental vigilance.
As monitoring approaches the halfway mark, Burke remains optimistic about the positive trajectory of the sites. The successful return of fish and improved environmental conditions underscore the effectiveness of the remediation efforts, paving the way for a healthier ecosystem in the region.