Groundwater Treatment System at Thunder Bay Airport
Official title: Thunder Bay FFTA Remediation Project - Permeable Reactive Barrier Installation, Thunder Bay, Ontario
Transport Canada wants to install a groundwater treatment system at Thunder Bay Airport. The project involves digging trenches to put in a permeable reactive barrier—basically a filter that cleans contaminated groundwater as it flows through. This is part of cleaning up the former firefighting training area.
Why This Matters
Live near Thunder Bay Airport? This project addresses groundwater contamination from decades of firefighting foam use. The chemicals in that foam can spread through groundwater. Cleaning it up protects local water sources.
What Could Change
A permanent groundwater treatment barrier will be installed underground at the airport. Construction will temporarily expand the mowed area. Once complete, contaminated groundwater will be passively filtered as it flows through the barrier.
Key Issues
- Will the permeable reactive barrier effectively treat groundwater contamination?
- What are the environmental impacts of the construction work?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.