“Fishermen Express Concerns Over Sewage Discharge”

Local fishermen in Ingonish Ferry, N.S., are expressing concerns over a planned sewage pipe that is set to discharge treated sewage into the harbor, potentially impacting their fishing operations.

Officials from Victoria County assert that the sewage system is essential for supporting both commercial and residential growth in the area and emphasize that the project complies with federal and provincial regulations.

Matthew Smith, a multi-generational fisherman from Ingonish Ferry, highlighted the challenge posed by the harbor’s limited water circulation, likening it to a stagnant bathtub.

Utilizing sonar technology on his fishing boat, Smith produced a detailed map of the harbor, revealing that while the basin is over 20 meters deep, its connection to the Atlantic Ocean is merely four meters deep.

Installation equipment for a sewer outfall pipe in Ingonish’s south harbor, with Ski Cape Smokey condominiums in the background. (Tom Ayers/CBC)

Smith pointed out that the shallow tide would not effectively disperse sewage treatment byproducts, advocating for the outfall to be directed out into the ocean to mitigate potential environmental impacts.

The $15-million sewage treatment plant, spearheaded by Victoria County to facilitate the development at Ski Cape Smokey, has triggered apprehension among local fishermen like Smith and Stewart Whitty, who operate lobster pounds near the discharge point.

Despite receiving regulatory approvals, concerns persist regarding the potential adverse effects of the treated effluent on marine life and the surrounding ecosystem.

Buoys marking the end of the treated sewage effluent outfall in Ingonish’s south harbor, close to lobster fishing areas. (Tom Ayers/CBC)

The fishermen highlighted the lack of consultation during the project planning phase, expressing dismay over the limited opportunity for input and questioning the potential ecological repercussions of the sewage outfall installation.

Tim Donovan, a county councillor, defended the project’s integrity, citing the endorsement from environmental experts and engineering authorities, despite acknowledging the need for improved public engagement.

Victoria County Coun. Tim Donovan pledges transparency and accessibility regarding the wastewater treatment project. (Tom Ayers/CBC)

While the project has received necessary permits and regulatory clearances, the local fishing community continues to voice reservations about the potential repercussions of the sewage treatment plant on their livelihoods and the delicate marine ecosystem.

Efforts to address the fishermen’s concerns and enhance community involvement in the project are underway, aiming to strike a balance between developmental needs and environmental conservation.