A group in North Bay, Ontario, expressed surprise at the Department of National Defence’s (DND) request for public input on the cleanup of “forever chemicals” at the local airport. Over several years, DND utilized firefighting foams containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during training exercises at Jack Garland Airport. These chemicals, known as forever chemicals, are resilient and persist in the environment. Health Canada has linked exposure to certain PFAS with various health issues.
From the 1970s to the mid-1990s, PFAS from the firefighting foams seeped into the airport’s groundwater, eventually reaching Trout Lake, North Bay’s primary water source. DND is investing $120 million to restore the site and collaborating with the city on a pilot program to test water filtration systems.
The remediation efforts began with the removal of 26,000 tonnes of contaminated soil to a disposal site in southern Ontario. The next phase involves injecting various colloidal activated carbon types into the ground to prevent remaining PFAS from escaping into local waterways.
DND sought public feedback on the proposed project, extending the deadline to May 28. Carol Hansman of the Trout Lake Conservation Association was surprised by the request and highlighted the need for transparency and detailed information on potential project impacts and alternative solutions.
DND clarified that while they anticipate no adverse effects, seeking public comment aligns with the Impact Assessment Act’s transparency requirements. Despite the initial short comment period, DND emphasized its commitment to engaging the community in environmental initiatives related to 22 Wing North Bay.