Issues
Nuclear Waste
The Chalk River Laboratories (CRL) is located on the banks of the Ottawa River, approximately 200 kilometres upstream of Ottawa-Gatineau. With a legacy of pollution by radioactive waste, Ottawa Riverkeeper has been tracking the activities and risks associated with the Chalk River Laboratories for many years.
PFAS “Forever Chemicals”
PFAS is short for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, artificial chemicals used in a variety of products. They are known to have harmful health impacts on humans and other organisms exposed to them.
Road Salt
Road salt is a source of safety in winter, protecting drivers and pedestrians from accidents and falls. However, it is drastically overused and is causing increasing damage to our local waterways. We must reduce our use of road salt to protect our watershed, rivers, and freshwater ecosystems.
Invasive Species
Invasive Species are a threat to native biodiversity. These are species introduced to a region where they were not naturally found, through intentional, unintentional, or accidental human activity, and that are known to be harmful to native biodiversity. Tracking these invasive species is important so that we get a clear picture of their impact, as well as how to avoid spreading them further.
Endangered Species
The Ottawa River watershed is home to hundreds of plant and animal species, however habitat threats including the introduction of dams, urban development, and pollution from residential and industrial sources have resulted in population declines for several species. A number of these species are listed as threatened or endangered both provincially and/or federally.
The American eel
The American eel was once the dominant fish species in the Ottawa River. In the past 40 years, it has declined by 99% and, along with it, so has the appreciation for its rich historical, ecological and cultural values within the watershed. Ottawa Riverkeeper and its allies will not accept the continued decimation of this iconic species.
Sewage Overflows
Most of the time, water quality in the Ottawa River is great for recreational activities. However, that is not always the case. When it rains or when snow melts, untreated sewage often flows in the river from combined sewers.
Microplastics
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that are typically smaller than 1mm in diameter. They can be found in clothing, fabrics, and other every day products.