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THUNDERSTORM MAY 2022 UPDATES & RESOUCRES |
A huge THANK YOU to the staff at Pinecrest Rec Center for helping to serve our residents by opening as a reception center.
Showers, washroom facilities and charging areas with WIFI were made available from 10am to 10pm 7 days a week.
Showers, washroom facilities and charging areas with WIFI were made available from 10am to 10pm 7 days a week.
October 5 2022
Derecho Storm Tree Planting Update
In the September 13 Derecho Storm Update to Council, Public Works shared its commitment to re-establishing the lost tree canopy by replanting lost City trees. Residents interested in a tree replacement on the City’s right of way were encouraged to request it through the Trees in Trust program.
In addition, Public Works advised that staff are looking at options to expand tree planting in 2023.
Fall Reforestation
An opportunity arose several days later to expedite some reforestation work earlier than anticipated. Weather permitting, this will allow us to reforest several areas impacted by the storm between now and November.
The five sites listed below have been selected since they all have areas of complete tree loss where no trees could be retained, so natural regeneration is not an option. In addition, the sites are ready for planting and require no additional site preparation work (e.g. tending of invasive species, grinding of stumps).
The five sites are:
• Ward 23: JJ Clarke Park, 75 Bridlewood Drive
• Ward 23: Deevy Pines, 65 & 85 Stonehaven Drive
• Ward 23: Brian Parsons Park, 53 Black Tern Crescent
• Ward 23: Hazeldean Woods, 89 Kakulu Road
• Ward 10: Windsor Park, 3560 Wyman Place
In terms of city-wide tree planting, efforts are being made to move forward on other reforestation projects at the earliest opportunity as sites are ready for replanting.
Plans are being developed and Councillors will be informed of site-specific plans as soon as possible.
Derecho Storm Tree Planting Update
In the September 13 Derecho Storm Update to Council, Public Works shared its commitment to re-establishing the lost tree canopy by replanting lost City trees. Residents interested in a tree replacement on the City’s right of way were encouraged to request it through the Trees in Trust program.
In addition, Public Works advised that staff are looking at options to expand tree planting in 2023.
Fall Reforestation
An opportunity arose several days later to expedite some reforestation work earlier than anticipated. Weather permitting, this will allow us to reforest several areas impacted by the storm between now and November.
The five sites listed below have been selected since they all have areas of complete tree loss where no trees could be retained, so natural regeneration is not an option. In addition, the sites are ready for planting and require no additional site preparation work (e.g. tending of invasive species, grinding of stumps).
The five sites are:
• Ward 23: JJ Clarke Park, 75 Bridlewood Drive
• Ward 23: Deevy Pines, 65 & 85 Stonehaven Drive
• Ward 23: Brian Parsons Park, 53 Black Tern Crescent
• Ward 23: Hazeldean Woods, 89 Kakulu Road
• Ward 10: Windsor Park, 3560 Wyman Place
In terms of city-wide tree planting, efforts are being made to move forward on other reforestation projects at the earliest opportunity as sites are ready for replanting.
Plans are being developed and Councillors will be informed of site-specific plans as soon as possible.
August 18 2022
Update on Public Works’ ongoing response to the May 21 derecho storm event in Ottawa.
Management of Wood and Tree Debris
Since the beginning of distribution on July 8, 1,750 cubic yards of woodchips have been delivered to seven City sites.
Residents have picked up the equivalent of 64,545 standard garden mulch bags, creating a beneficial re-use of tree debris from the storm on May 21.
On August 5, the full log auction closed with 7,371 cubic meters of logs sold from the 16,628 cubic meters posted on the site. The remaining logs will be repurposed as firewood and block wood for distribution to the public. Firewood and pieces of block wood from City trees damaged by the storm will also be available for residents to pick up at no cost beginning Wednesday, August 17.
This material can be picked up at the City of Ottawa site located at 4061 Strandherd Drive (Snow dump facility off of Dealership Drive at the end of Philsar Street). Other potential pickup locations are being considered and these will be communicated to residents when confirmed.
Residents are being advised to bring their own means for loading and transporting the wood. Residents are encouraged to wear work gloves and appropriate footwear and be mindful of other people and vehicles to keep everyone safe. Residents are urged not to move the wood outside City of Ottawa limits.
For more information on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) rules and regulations for moving firewood, and regulated areas please visit the Government of Canada website.
Curbside Debris Collection
Public Works has been continuing to collect large storm related debris on a service request basis and we are seeing fewer service requests. As the demand is much lower and we need to start preparing for fall and winter operations, as of September 16, the removal of tree debris and organic waste will return to regular leaf and yard waste collection and we ask residents to bundle and bag their leaf and yard waste appropriately as identified on the City of Ottawa website.
Public Works also encourages residents to explore other beneficial re-use of their tree logs or firewood, such as posting on public sites.
Damage to City Right of Way
The City has received some reports of damage to lawns on the city right of way adjacent to some homeowner properties as a result of the clean up efforts. Staff are working on addressing the reinstatement of these lawns promptly. If residents notice damage from the storm clean up on the ROW adjacent to their property, we ask that they please notify 3-1-1 so staff can attend.
If there is damage to the private portion of the lawn, homeowners are asked to submit a claim through the city’s claims process.
Stump Removal
Forestry Services continues to work on the process for the removal of approximately 450 uprooted stumps and the reinstatement of the leftover portion of the lawn on city right of ways. In the coming weeks, residents with uprooted stumps on the city right of way adjacent to their properties can expect to receive a letter from the city to notify them that their stump is on the list for planned removal and expected next steps.
Currently, there are over 2,000 intact stumps remaining after storm related tree removals. As priority is being given to uprooted stumps, intact stumps will be addressed in 2023, from Spring to Fall.
The process for removal of an intact stump involves getting utility locates, grinding the stump, backfilling with soil and overseeding. We appreciate the ongoing support as our cleanup and recovery efforts continue.
Residents can visit the City’s storm recovery webpage for up-to-date information on what supports are available.
Update on Public Works’ ongoing response to the May 21 derecho storm event in Ottawa.
Management of Wood and Tree Debris
Since the beginning of distribution on July 8, 1,750 cubic yards of woodchips have been delivered to seven City sites.
Residents have picked up the equivalent of 64,545 standard garden mulch bags, creating a beneficial re-use of tree debris from the storm on May 21.
On August 5, the full log auction closed with 7,371 cubic meters of logs sold from the 16,628 cubic meters posted on the site. The remaining logs will be repurposed as firewood and block wood for distribution to the public. Firewood and pieces of block wood from City trees damaged by the storm will also be available for residents to pick up at no cost beginning Wednesday, August 17.
This material can be picked up at the City of Ottawa site located at 4061 Strandherd Drive (Snow dump facility off of Dealership Drive at the end of Philsar Street). Other potential pickup locations are being considered and these will be communicated to residents when confirmed.
Residents are being advised to bring their own means for loading and transporting the wood. Residents are encouraged to wear work gloves and appropriate footwear and be mindful of other people and vehicles to keep everyone safe. Residents are urged not to move the wood outside City of Ottawa limits.
For more information on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) rules and regulations for moving firewood, and regulated areas please visit the Government of Canada website.
Curbside Debris Collection
Public Works has been continuing to collect large storm related debris on a service request basis and we are seeing fewer service requests. As the demand is much lower and we need to start preparing for fall and winter operations, as of September 16, the removal of tree debris and organic waste will return to regular leaf and yard waste collection and we ask residents to bundle and bag their leaf and yard waste appropriately as identified on the City of Ottawa website.
Public Works also encourages residents to explore other beneficial re-use of their tree logs or firewood, such as posting on public sites.
Damage to City Right of Way
The City has received some reports of damage to lawns on the city right of way adjacent to some homeowner properties as a result of the clean up efforts. Staff are working on addressing the reinstatement of these lawns promptly. If residents notice damage from the storm clean up on the ROW adjacent to their property, we ask that they please notify 3-1-1 so staff can attend.
If there is damage to the private portion of the lawn, homeowners are asked to submit a claim through the city’s claims process.
Stump Removal
Forestry Services continues to work on the process for the removal of approximately 450 uprooted stumps and the reinstatement of the leftover portion of the lawn on city right of ways. In the coming weeks, residents with uprooted stumps on the city right of way adjacent to their properties can expect to receive a letter from the city to notify them that their stump is on the list for planned removal and expected next steps.
Currently, there are over 2,000 intact stumps remaining after storm related tree removals. As priority is being given to uprooted stumps, intact stumps will be addressed in 2023, from Spring to Fall.
The process for removal of an intact stump involves getting utility locates, grinding the stump, backfilling with soil and overseeding. We appreciate the ongoing support as our cleanup and recovery efforts continue.
Residents can visit the City’s storm recovery webpage for up-to-date information on what supports are available.
July 7, 2022
Storm Response Update
The Public Works Department continues to be heavily involved in the cleanup and management of storm related debris. Our Forestry Operations crews continue to address and prioritize the removal of damaged trees on City property resulting from storm damage and anticipate that these removal operations will continue into the Fall.
Solid Waste Service in collaboration with Roads Services continue to address debris cleanup through regular waste collection operations and through service requests for the removal of large material.
Management of Wood and Tree Debris Significant quantities of wood and tree debris that have been stored at City yards since the start of debris cleanup from the storm on May 21st continue to be chipped. Some of the finer chipped material will be made available to residents at no cost.
Staff have identified 6 locations across the city where residents can pick up wood chips. Please note that wood chips from storm-related tree debris will differ in size and quality from what is for sale at a garden center. The chips will be available while quantities last. There is no per person limit. Residents are being advised to bring a shovel and their own containers for loading the chips.
Residents are encouraged to wear work gloves and appropriate footwear and be mindful of other people and vehicles to keep everyone safe. The wood chip piles will be available 24/7 at the following locations and once available, this will be communicated to the public via various media channels:
City Works Yards
• 4244 Rideau Valley Drive
• 1655 Maple Grove Road
• 29 Hurdman Road
• 2145 Roger Stevens Drive Recreation Facilities
• Navan Memorial Centre at 1295 Colonial Road
• Nepean Sportsplex at 1701 Woodroffe Avenue
The wood chips will be in publicly accessible areas at each location and signage will be posted to identify the materials, outline safety practices and remind residents what to bring with them. These locations will be monitored, and wood chip stock replenished as required. Should the City not be able to dispose of all wood chips through public uses, then other disposal options will be considered and shared with Council.
In addition to the repurposing of wood chips, the city is also exploring options for the online auctioning of wood logs resulting from the storm. Further communication will be shared with the public on this initiative once it becomes available.
Strategy for Stump Removal
Public Works is dealing with two types of stump removal operations on City property. The first is related to stumps resulting from City trees that have been removed where the stumps remain intact and the second is related to uprooted stumps.
Intact Stumps
For stumps that remain in place, staff will be undertaking stump grinding operations in 2023. Stump grinding for these stumps will be added to Forestry’s regular stumping program. It is standard practice once a tree removal is complete for the remaining stump to be addressed the following year through the city’s stumping program. Forestry staff will communicate with residents to confirm stump grinding operations for 2023.
Uprooted Stumps on City Property Uprooted stumps on city roadsides will need to be removed and the remaining hole backfilled. Due to the very high number of stumps to be addressed, these will be lengthy operations. These operations include the procurement of contracted services to complete the work. Once these contracts are awarded, utility locates will be required before removal operations can take place.
This will be a lengthy process and while staff will make every effort to expedite these operations, it is expected that some removal operations for uprooted stumps could extend into 2023. Given the extended timelines, staff will be communicating with residents who have uprooted stumps on the city roadsides adjacent to their properties of the length of time it may take to have them removed. Stump grinding and removal operations of uprooted stumps in parks will also be addressed in 2023 after removal operations along roadsides are underway.
Tree Re-Planting
The May 21st storm caused significant tree canopy loss in Ottawa. Residential tree replacements on City property will be conducted through the City’s Trees in Trust program. Residents who would like a city tree planted in the right of way portion of their property can submit a request online. Currently, the fall 2022 planting season is fully subscribed. New requests for Trees in Trust will be processed for spring 2023.
Public Works has also extended the June 1st deadline to apply to the Schoolyard Tree Planting Grant Program to October, to allow schools that lost trees from the storm to apply.
The May 21st storm also caused tree loss in City parks. Staff are still conducting tree loss assessments in parks; however, re-planting needs will be determined this year and re-planting will occur in 2023. Staff are still focused on storm recovery but will be looking at opportunities to scale-up tree plantings in 2023. Public Works remains mindful that some residents are continuing to deal with the aftermath of the storm.
Please visit the City’s storm response webpage for up-to-date information on what supports are available.
Storm Response Update
The Public Works Department continues to be heavily involved in the cleanup and management of storm related debris. Our Forestry Operations crews continue to address and prioritize the removal of damaged trees on City property resulting from storm damage and anticipate that these removal operations will continue into the Fall.
Solid Waste Service in collaboration with Roads Services continue to address debris cleanup through regular waste collection operations and through service requests for the removal of large material.
Management of Wood and Tree Debris Significant quantities of wood and tree debris that have been stored at City yards since the start of debris cleanup from the storm on May 21st continue to be chipped. Some of the finer chipped material will be made available to residents at no cost.
Staff have identified 6 locations across the city where residents can pick up wood chips. Please note that wood chips from storm-related tree debris will differ in size and quality from what is for sale at a garden center. The chips will be available while quantities last. There is no per person limit. Residents are being advised to bring a shovel and their own containers for loading the chips.
Residents are encouraged to wear work gloves and appropriate footwear and be mindful of other people and vehicles to keep everyone safe. The wood chip piles will be available 24/7 at the following locations and once available, this will be communicated to the public via various media channels:
City Works Yards
• 4244 Rideau Valley Drive
• 1655 Maple Grove Road
• 29 Hurdman Road
• 2145 Roger Stevens Drive Recreation Facilities
• Navan Memorial Centre at 1295 Colonial Road
• Nepean Sportsplex at 1701 Woodroffe Avenue
The wood chips will be in publicly accessible areas at each location and signage will be posted to identify the materials, outline safety practices and remind residents what to bring with them. These locations will be monitored, and wood chip stock replenished as required. Should the City not be able to dispose of all wood chips through public uses, then other disposal options will be considered and shared with Council.
In addition to the repurposing of wood chips, the city is also exploring options for the online auctioning of wood logs resulting from the storm. Further communication will be shared with the public on this initiative once it becomes available.
Strategy for Stump Removal
Public Works is dealing with two types of stump removal operations on City property. The first is related to stumps resulting from City trees that have been removed where the stumps remain intact and the second is related to uprooted stumps.
Intact Stumps
For stumps that remain in place, staff will be undertaking stump grinding operations in 2023. Stump grinding for these stumps will be added to Forestry’s regular stumping program. It is standard practice once a tree removal is complete for the remaining stump to be addressed the following year through the city’s stumping program. Forestry staff will communicate with residents to confirm stump grinding operations for 2023.
Uprooted Stumps on City Property Uprooted stumps on city roadsides will need to be removed and the remaining hole backfilled. Due to the very high number of stumps to be addressed, these will be lengthy operations. These operations include the procurement of contracted services to complete the work. Once these contracts are awarded, utility locates will be required before removal operations can take place.
This will be a lengthy process and while staff will make every effort to expedite these operations, it is expected that some removal operations for uprooted stumps could extend into 2023. Given the extended timelines, staff will be communicating with residents who have uprooted stumps on the city roadsides adjacent to their properties of the length of time it may take to have them removed. Stump grinding and removal operations of uprooted stumps in parks will also be addressed in 2023 after removal operations along roadsides are underway.
Tree Re-Planting
The May 21st storm caused significant tree canopy loss in Ottawa. Residential tree replacements on City property will be conducted through the City’s Trees in Trust program. Residents who would like a city tree planted in the right of way portion of their property can submit a request online. Currently, the fall 2022 planting season is fully subscribed. New requests for Trees in Trust will be processed for spring 2023.
Public Works has also extended the June 1st deadline to apply to the Schoolyard Tree Planting Grant Program to October, to allow schools that lost trees from the storm to apply.
The May 21st storm also caused tree loss in City parks. Staff are still conducting tree loss assessments in parks; however, re-planting needs will be determined this year and re-planting will occur in 2023. Staff are still focused on storm recovery but will be looking at opportunities to scale-up tree plantings in 2023. Public Works remains mindful that some residents are continuing to deal with the aftermath of the storm.
Please visit the City’s storm response webpage for up-to-date information on what supports are available.
ASIDE:
On June 22, Hydro Ottawa CEO Bryce Conrad answered questions about their response to the aftermath during their annual report to Council. There were many questions asked and while some had answers that were disappointing but understandable (why not bury all power lines, for example), the question of why their communications about timelines were not more extensive was the biggest focus.
It was an issue felt city wide and a very valid observation of what needs to /must be improved going forward.
Mr. Conrad and board chair Jim Durrell accepted Councillors’ feedback and suggestions on behalf of residents with a view towards review and implementation. The meeting itself can also be watched on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYKB6-02nPM starting at 1:14:37.
We are looking forward to seeing the progress they are making towards improving their emergency communications strategy.
On June 22, Hydro Ottawa CEO Bryce Conrad answered questions about their response to the aftermath during their annual report to Council. There were many questions asked and while some had answers that were disappointing but understandable (why not bury all power lines, for example), the question of why their communications about timelines were not more extensive was the biggest focus.
It was an issue felt city wide and a very valid observation of what needs to /must be improved going forward.
Mr. Conrad and board chair Jim Durrell accepted Councillors’ feedback and suggestions on behalf of residents with a view towards review and implementation. The meeting itself can also be watched on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYKB6-02nPM starting at 1:14:37.
We are looking forward to seeing the progress they are making towards improving their emergency communications strategy.
June 13, 2022
UPDATE: Storm Cleanup
Since the storm on May 21, Public Works staff have been fully deployed to support recovery and clean-up. The response has required a tremendous level of dedicated work and coordination across Public Works. As a result, many regular maintenance activities were suspended or delayed to allow staff to focus on the clean-up work required after the storm.
The City’s top priority after the storm was public safety. Immediate recovery efforts were focused on supporting our hydro partners in reinstating power to the residents of Ottawa.
Public Works also provided support for organic waste disposal, worked to maintain traffic and road safety, and immediately began to undertake debris removal, prioritizing highly impacted areas.
We are transitioning to the next phase of storm recovery, with a continued focus on priority forestry operations while winding-down debris management activities in order to facilitate the resumption of routine maintenance and operations.
Road, Sidewalk and Curbside Clean-up Efforts
As of June 10, Public Works has collected debris from over 10,000 lane kilometers of our city’s roadways, and a first pass for curbside debris collection has been completed city-wide. That is more kilometers than it takes to drive across Canada, from the east to west coast.
Crews have conducted, at minimum, a first pass of special storm-related debris collection on all City streets. Much progress has been made since the storm, and debris collection operations are ongoing.
This week, staff will be completing a second pass of special storm-related debris collection. Second and third passes have already begun in the most highly impacted areas, including Navan, Pineglen, Uplands and Stittsville.
Since the storm, Public Works has provided special curbside collection of storm related debris. In most areas of the city, the need for collection of storm related debris is now far less, and Public Works is planning for a gradual return to normal curbside debris collection.
Gradual Return to Normal Curbside Debris Collection
For large storm related tree debris, we ask that residents bring remaining storm related tree debris to the curb by Friday June 24. This will allow staff to complete a final pass using heavy equipment.
Rest assured, Public Works will continue to assist residents in the hardest hit areas as needed and will continue to address service requests as they arise.
For remaining smaller branches and debris, we ask residents to package these in properly sized yard waste bags or bundled for regular weekly leaf and yard waste collection. For further leaf and yard waste set-out information, visit ottawa.ca/greenbin. The disposal of organic storm-related organic debris at the Trail Waste Facility continues to be free of charge until end-of-day Saturday June 25.
Residents can haul organic storm-related waste to Trail Road at their convenience, and free of charge, until that date. We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust this date if needed.
Through the duration of cleanup efforts, Roads and Parking Services continued to address potholes in hazardous, priority locations.
Regular pothole operations are beginning to resume, although some delays have been reported. Parks and Forestry Clean-up Public Works staff are currently focused on addressing hazards in parks and continuing to respond to City tree debris on private property.
Since May 21, Parks Maintenance staff identified 528 parks with varying degrees of tree related damage requiring work. As of June 9, storm response work in 256 parks is complete, with work in 272 remaining. Public Works was fortunate to receive assistance from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry rangers, who supported the City in the removal of damaged trees in parks and pathways.
Forestry contractors have been made available to assist with these works and will continue to support through the coming weeks. The clean-up efforts remaining for our parks and City trees are significant, and staff are addressing them on a priority basis. It will take several weeks to complete this work.
From June 13 to June 17, a City of Hamilton Forestry crew will assist the City of Ottawa in addressing high priority and complex work related to City tree removal operations. This support will provide Public Works crews with much needed assistance in the enormous task of addressing the damage done by the storm to City trees.
Gradual Return to Normal Parks and Forestry Maintenance
Over the past two weeks, residents may have noticed longer grass in their community parks and along their roadsides and medians. While staff were fully deployed to storm response, some of these normal operations were suspended. That temporary suspension has ended, and Public Works has resumed grass cutting in parks and along roadways.
Public Works will be catching up to mowing operations through the week of June 21, and then starting a second cycle.
Staff will also continue to clean up debris in parks over the next couple of weeks. Approximately 70% of parks staff have returned to regular operations. The remaining staff are supporting the cleanup of tree debris in parks and roadsides. Additional parks staff and contracted services are being allocated to the cleanup of tree debris, and to catch up on outstanding passive and roadside grass cutting.
Public Works remains mindful that some residents are continuing to deal with the aftermath of the storm.
Please visit the City’s storm response webpage for up-to-date information on what supports are available.
This clean-up effort is the largest Public Works has ever led. It will take months before it is all complete, but our teams have made incredible progress and will continue until the job is done.
UPDATE: Storm Cleanup
Since the storm on May 21, Public Works staff have been fully deployed to support recovery and clean-up. The response has required a tremendous level of dedicated work and coordination across Public Works. As a result, many regular maintenance activities were suspended or delayed to allow staff to focus on the clean-up work required after the storm.
The City’s top priority after the storm was public safety. Immediate recovery efforts were focused on supporting our hydro partners in reinstating power to the residents of Ottawa.
Public Works also provided support for organic waste disposal, worked to maintain traffic and road safety, and immediately began to undertake debris removal, prioritizing highly impacted areas.
We are transitioning to the next phase of storm recovery, with a continued focus on priority forestry operations while winding-down debris management activities in order to facilitate the resumption of routine maintenance and operations.
Road, Sidewalk and Curbside Clean-up Efforts
As of June 10, Public Works has collected debris from over 10,000 lane kilometers of our city’s roadways, and a first pass for curbside debris collection has been completed city-wide. That is more kilometers than it takes to drive across Canada, from the east to west coast.
Crews have conducted, at minimum, a first pass of special storm-related debris collection on all City streets. Much progress has been made since the storm, and debris collection operations are ongoing.
This week, staff will be completing a second pass of special storm-related debris collection. Second and third passes have already begun in the most highly impacted areas, including Navan, Pineglen, Uplands and Stittsville.
Since the storm, Public Works has provided special curbside collection of storm related debris. In most areas of the city, the need for collection of storm related debris is now far less, and Public Works is planning for a gradual return to normal curbside debris collection.
Gradual Return to Normal Curbside Debris Collection
For large storm related tree debris, we ask that residents bring remaining storm related tree debris to the curb by Friday June 24. This will allow staff to complete a final pass using heavy equipment.
Rest assured, Public Works will continue to assist residents in the hardest hit areas as needed and will continue to address service requests as they arise.
For remaining smaller branches and debris, we ask residents to package these in properly sized yard waste bags or bundled for regular weekly leaf and yard waste collection. For further leaf and yard waste set-out information, visit ottawa.ca/greenbin. The disposal of organic storm-related organic debris at the Trail Waste Facility continues to be free of charge until end-of-day Saturday June 25.
Residents can haul organic storm-related waste to Trail Road at their convenience, and free of charge, until that date. We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust this date if needed.
Through the duration of cleanup efforts, Roads and Parking Services continued to address potholes in hazardous, priority locations.
Regular pothole operations are beginning to resume, although some delays have been reported. Parks and Forestry Clean-up Public Works staff are currently focused on addressing hazards in parks and continuing to respond to City tree debris on private property.
Since May 21, Parks Maintenance staff identified 528 parks with varying degrees of tree related damage requiring work. As of June 9, storm response work in 256 parks is complete, with work in 272 remaining. Public Works was fortunate to receive assistance from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry rangers, who supported the City in the removal of damaged trees in parks and pathways.
Forestry contractors have been made available to assist with these works and will continue to support through the coming weeks. The clean-up efforts remaining for our parks and City trees are significant, and staff are addressing them on a priority basis. It will take several weeks to complete this work.
From June 13 to June 17, a City of Hamilton Forestry crew will assist the City of Ottawa in addressing high priority and complex work related to City tree removal operations. This support will provide Public Works crews with much needed assistance in the enormous task of addressing the damage done by the storm to City trees.
Gradual Return to Normal Parks and Forestry Maintenance
Over the past two weeks, residents may have noticed longer grass in their community parks and along their roadsides and medians. While staff were fully deployed to storm response, some of these normal operations were suspended. That temporary suspension has ended, and Public Works has resumed grass cutting in parks and along roadways.
Public Works will be catching up to mowing operations through the week of June 21, and then starting a second cycle.
Staff will also continue to clean up debris in parks over the next couple of weeks. Approximately 70% of parks staff have returned to regular operations. The remaining staff are supporting the cleanup of tree debris in parks and roadsides. Additional parks staff and contracted services are being allocated to the cleanup of tree debris, and to catch up on outstanding passive and roadside grass cutting.
Public Works remains mindful that some residents are continuing to deal with the aftermath of the storm.
Please visit the City’s storm response webpage for up-to-date information on what supports are available.
This clean-up effort is the largest Public Works has ever led. It will take months before it is all complete, but our teams have made incredible progress and will continue until the job is done.
You asked: How to dispose of organic storm debris, and when will grass cutting resume?
June 10, 2022
While the power has been restored to Hydro Ottawa and Hydro One customers, the cleanup after this powerful storm, which impacted every corner of the city, continues. Roadways have been cleared and reopened and all damaged traffic signals have been repaired. However, the ongoing cleanup will continue to require additional resources.
We have provided information continuously throughout the recovery, and we understand all the updates can create information overload. So, we want to answer some common questions that we received from you, our residents. We are hoping these answers will help make things a little clearer.
Are you still picking up larger tree branches and brush?
Yes, the City still has dedicated crews conducting assessments and special collections of tree debris. Dedicated crews have mostly completed a first round of collection, and they are currently making a second pass in heavily impacted areas. We appreciate your patience.
If you haven’t gathered your larger organic storm debris, take advantage of this special collection before it transitions back to regular weekly leaf and yard collection. Our regular collection crews are picking up as much of the curbside debris as possible; special collections crews are handling any larger tree debris that our regular curbside collectors and equipment cannot manage. Just leave everything at the curb for pick-up. Be sure your branches are not obstructing any road, sidewalk, or fire hydrant.
Note that the City continues to accept larger, organic storm-related waste free-of-charge at Trail Road Waste Facility until June 25. For location and hours and operation, visit ottawa.ca.
I have smaller tree debris and brush. Can I simply use my regular leaf and yard waste collection?
Smaller branches and brush can be put out as part of your leaf and yard waste on your weekly waste and recycling collection day. You just need to bundle and tie it or brown-bag it.
Bundling small branches or for those larger ones cut into smaller pieces
My fallen City tree has been removed. Will someone comeback to remove the stump?
The City will take care of the stump from fallen City-owned trees. This will take time. Before it can be done, your gas and power lines will be marked to ensure only the stump is cut and grinded. This same process as when damaged ash trees were taken down after they were ravaged by the Emerald Ash Borer. There’s no need to call 3-1-1 to request a City tree-stump be removed once the tree is taken away; we will be back for it.
For removal of privately-owned tree stumps, you will need to contact a tree removal company. Also, markings for any underground utility lines – electrical and gas – will need to be done before any digging or grinding work is done. Property owners can consult with their insurance company or broker to see if stump removal is eligible under storm-related coverage in their plan.
When will the City cut the grass on the medians and parks in our neighbourhood?
Yes, tall grass may be seen on your neighbourhood medians and parks – especially after all that rain. Many of the staff who would normally complete that sort of maintenance are still working hard in the cleanup recovery across the city – especially harder hit communities. However, we are gradually moving back to normal operations, and we’ll get to that grass as soon as possible.
For many neighbourhoods, the May 21 storm is just a distant memory. But for some of us, the extensive damage and recovery efforts remain a present reality. Many of our City Public Works resources are focusing their energy on cleaning up those heavily impacted neighbourhoods - and soon, services and life will get back to normal. Thank you for your patience
https://ottawa.ca/en/news/you-asked-how-dispose-organic-storm-debris-and-when-will-grass-cutting-resume
June 10, 2022
While the power has been restored to Hydro Ottawa and Hydro One customers, the cleanup after this powerful storm, which impacted every corner of the city, continues. Roadways have been cleared and reopened and all damaged traffic signals have been repaired. However, the ongoing cleanup will continue to require additional resources.
We have provided information continuously throughout the recovery, and we understand all the updates can create information overload. So, we want to answer some common questions that we received from you, our residents. We are hoping these answers will help make things a little clearer.
Are you still picking up larger tree branches and brush?
Yes, the City still has dedicated crews conducting assessments and special collections of tree debris. Dedicated crews have mostly completed a first round of collection, and they are currently making a second pass in heavily impacted areas. We appreciate your patience.
If you haven’t gathered your larger organic storm debris, take advantage of this special collection before it transitions back to regular weekly leaf and yard collection. Our regular collection crews are picking up as much of the curbside debris as possible; special collections crews are handling any larger tree debris that our regular curbside collectors and equipment cannot manage. Just leave everything at the curb for pick-up. Be sure your branches are not obstructing any road, sidewalk, or fire hydrant.
Note that the City continues to accept larger, organic storm-related waste free-of-charge at Trail Road Waste Facility until June 25. For location and hours and operation, visit ottawa.ca.
I have smaller tree debris and brush. Can I simply use my regular leaf and yard waste collection?
Smaller branches and brush can be put out as part of your leaf and yard waste on your weekly waste and recycling collection day. You just need to bundle and tie it or brown-bag it.
Bundling small branches or for those larger ones cut into smaller pieces
- Bundled and tied using twine or other organic material.
- Individual branches should be less than 10 centimetres (4 inches) in diameter.
- Bundles must be less than 1,2 metres (four feet) in length and 60 centimetres (two feet) in width.
My fallen City tree has been removed. Will someone comeback to remove the stump?
The City will take care of the stump from fallen City-owned trees. This will take time. Before it can be done, your gas and power lines will be marked to ensure only the stump is cut and grinded. This same process as when damaged ash trees were taken down after they were ravaged by the Emerald Ash Borer. There’s no need to call 3-1-1 to request a City tree-stump be removed once the tree is taken away; we will be back for it.
For removal of privately-owned tree stumps, you will need to contact a tree removal company. Also, markings for any underground utility lines – electrical and gas – will need to be done before any digging or grinding work is done. Property owners can consult with their insurance company or broker to see if stump removal is eligible under storm-related coverage in their plan.
When will the City cut the grass on the medians and parks in our neighbourhood?
Yes, tall grass may be seen on your neighbourhood medians and parks – especially after all that rain. Many of the staff who would normally complete that sort of maintenance are still working hard in the cleanup recovery across the city – especially harder hit communities. However, we are gradually moving back to normal operations, and we’ll get to that grass as soon as possible.
For many neighbourhoods, the May 21 storm is just a distant memory. But for some of us, the extensive damage and recovery efforts remain a present reality. Many of our City Public Works resources are focusing their energy on cleaning up those heavily impacted neighbourhoods - and soon, services and life will get back to normal. Thank you for your patience
https://ottawa.ca/en/news/you-asked-how-dispose-organic-storm-debris-and-when-will-grass-cutting-resume
Volunteer Update
The Emergency Operations Centre, in partnership with community agencies will launch a volunteer program for residents interested in helping recovery efforts in their community and for those in need. This program will be similar to Cleaning the Capital where we encourage neighbours to clean up their impacted communities. We're looking for councillors, community associations, and other partners to work together and carry out cleanup efforts in partnership with the city. Further information will be available shortly.
The Emergency Operations Centre, in partnership with community agencies will launch a volunteer program for residents interested in helping recovery efforts in their community and for those in need. This program will be similar to Cleaning the Capital where we encourage neighbours to clean up their impacted communities. We're looking for councillors, community associations, and other partners to work together and carry out cleanup efforts in partnership with the city. Further information will be available shortly.
May 23, 2022
This Victoria Day weekend will forever be remembered. Not for celebration but for hardship and loss, leaving many questions begging for answers.
Alot has happened over the past couple of days since the storm hit on Saturday and information is coming from from a myriad of different sources all while changing almost hourly.
Your College Ward team has made themselves available throughout the weekend by email and phone, providing assistance to residents and late into the evenings.
We have also had the opportunity to observe the damage throughout the ward first hand and meet some of our residents along the way. It's an experience that leaves a lasting impression and we are forever grateful to live in a City where neighbors look out for each other.
We have submitted service requests to 311 for those who have reached out so far and documented more for submission while out this afternoon.
Click HERE
This Victoria Day weekend will forever be remembered. Not for celebration but for hardship and loss, leaving many questions begging for answers.
Alot has happened over the past couple of days since the storm hit on Saturday and information is coming from from a myriad of different sources all while changing almost hourly.
Your College Ward team has made themselves available throughout the weekend by email and phone, providing assistance to residents and late into the evenings.
We have also had the opportunity to observe the damage throughout the ward first hand and meet some of our residents along the way. It's an experience that leaves a lasting impression and we are forever grateful to live in a City where neighbors look out for each other.
We have submitted service requests to 311 for those who have reached out so far and documented more for submission while out this afternoon.
Click HERE
It's worth acknowledging that this was no ordinary thunderstorm.
It was, as Environment Canada Senior Climatologist David Phillips explains, a Derecho storm. “It’s sort of like a microburst or a thunderstorm but you get a whole army of those. Imagine soldiers lined up and just mowing down the front lines as they move along. Meteorologically, that’s essentially what happens....a long line of very active thunderstorms or microburst"
It was, as Environment Canada Senior Climatologist David Phillips explains, a Derecho storm. “It’s sort of like a microburst or a thunderstorm but you get a whole army of those. Imagine soldiers lined up and just mowing down the front lines as they move along. Meteorologically, that’s essentially what happens....a long line of very active thunderstorms or microburst"
Weather events like this can affect everyone differently. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, please reach out and speak to someone. For mental health services and supports, please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/StressfulEvents(link is external).
Residents in need can call 2-1-1 for information(link is external) on government and local community-based health and social services.
The City of Ottawa is also providing updates on their website.
Residents in need can call 2-1-1 for information(link is external) on government and local community-based health and social services.
The City of Ottawa is also providing updates on their website.
To help sort through the various updates, please click on the photo for the corresponding update.
Power Restoration
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Traffic Impacts/Road Closures
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Reception Centers
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College Ward is truly a gem and we will continue our efforts to restore our beautiful community.