Urgent Call for Citizen Collaboration in Saint-Georges and Lac-Tortue Sectors

Residents in the Saint-Georges and Lac-à-Tortue areas of Shawinigan are being asked to voluntarily reduce their water consumption between May 20th and May 23rd. This request comes as the city undertakes essential maintenance and cleaning at the Tugarcadère pumping station. The temporary reduction in water usage will help mitigate potential wastewater discharges into the Saint-Maurice River during the maintenance period.

The city is proactively addressing potential environmental concerns by taking these preventative measures. Similar situations in other municipalities have highlighted the importance of such collaborative efforts. Such as, in 2024, a neighboring city experienced significant environmental damage due to an overflow caused by unexpected strain on their wastewater system during maintenance.

Tugarcadère Pumping Station: Maintenance Schedule and Impact

The maintenance work at the Tugarcadère pumping station is scheduled to run continuously, including overnight, from 7:30 AM on Tuesday, May 20th, to 4:00 PM on Friday, May 23rd. This intensive schedule is designed to minimize the overall disruption to the city’s wastewater management system.

During this period, residents are strongly encouraged to postpone activities that require significant water usage. This includes, but is not limited to, doing laundry and running dishwashers. By reducing the overall volume of water entering the sewer system, the risk of overflow and subsequent environmental impact is significantly lessened.

Identifying affected Areas and Staying Informed

To determine if your property is within the affected zone, residents can consult an interactive map. additionally, the city is utilizing its automated messaging service (SMAC) to directly inform impacted households.Residents who are not already registered for SMAC are encouraged to do so via the city’s website or by contacting the citizen services hotline. Staying informed is crucial for effective participation in this community-wide effort.

Beyond Temporary Measures: Responsible Wastewater Disposal

While the immediate focus is on reducing water consumption during the maintenance period, the city also reminds residents of the importance of responsible wastewater disposal practices year-round. Never dispose of inappropriate items, such as food scraps, sanitary products, or wipes, into the sewer system. These items can cause blockages and contribute to system failures, leading to costly repairs and potential environmental hazards.

Environmental Oversight and Community Recognition

The regional directorate of the Ministry of the Habitat,the Fight against Climate Change,Wildlife and Parks,and Environment Canada have been notified of the planned maintenance and the associated water conservation request. this ensures that the project is conducted wiht appropriate environmental oversight and in compliance with all relevant regulations.

The City of Shawinigan expresses its sincere gratitude to the residents of Saint-georges and Lac-à-Tortue for their cooperation in this important initiative. By working together, the community can ensure the continued health and sustainability of the region’s waterways.