Annual catch basin cleaning program begins April 13, 2026

Crews set to clean 10,000 catch basins in Nanaimo

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed April 9, 2026 9:00 AM

Summary

Beginning Monday, April 13, City of Nanaimo Public Works staff and contractors will be out cleaning the City's inventory of stormwater catch basins. This work helps reduce the risk of pollutants from entering our natural environment.

Starting in the Duke Point area, crews will work their way north through the various corridors of the city. This work involves large equipment and staff working on the road. Please approach with caution and obey traffic control personnel's directions. The annual catch basin cleaning program is expected to be complete by the end August.

Link to Strategic Plan: Maintaining and growing current services.

Key Points

During the program, storm drain grates are pulled off and the catch basin is then cleaned out using a vacuum truck. An inspection is then conducted for any deficiencies. The material is then disposed of in an environmentally safe manner.
Groess Environmental Services has been contracted to conduct the 2026 catch basin cleaning program with City of Nanaimo Public Works staff.
Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians are asked to watch for crews and traffic control personnel on the roads and be aware of missing grates near the work zone.
For information on where to properly dispose of items such as paint, oil and other fluids, use the What Goes Where wizard on the Nanaimo Recycles app or on the City website.

Quotes

"This annual program benefits the community in a number of ways. It protects our waterways by reducing pollutants from entering them, reduces the risk of flooding and keeps our stormwater system flowing. And, it allows our crews to inspect this critical infrastructure for any maintenance issues so they can make repairs if needed. Residents can support this program year-round by making sure the catch basins in front of their properties are clear of leaves and other debris and not dumping any polluting substances into drains."

Bill Sims

General Manager, Engineering & Public Works

City of Nanaimo