Remediation work at the Erickson Stormwater Pond is now complete, with crews removing 1,746 invasive goldfish that were harming the natural environment.

The removal work lasted for two weeks and required the drawdown of the pond, relocation of salamanders and newts and removal of the goldfish.
Work was completed on Friday, and trails in the area are now re-opened.

“The number and size of the goldfish that had to be removed really shows why this species is such a challenge when released to nature,” said Steve Roehr, Operations Manager, Utilities.

“They multiply quickly and grow to be big – and that edges out native species.”

The City of Campbell River worked with an independent environmental contractor to complete the work which required extensive environmental permitting.

While the process was successful, it is likely that a follow up remediation effort will be required to make sure the removal is complete.

The City says the goldfish at Erickson Pond are an example of the challenge created when invasive species are released into the wild.

Residents and property owners are encouraged to learn more about what’s not for the wild, and how to properly dispose of invasive species, both animals and plants, at City of Campbell River.