Initially introduced by Environment Hamilton in 2002, Pipewatch is designed to engage community members in visual and hands on monitoring of water quality in local waterways. 

This year the program has been reintroduced in order to revisit the Red Hill Creek watershed -- an identified area on concern in east Hamitlon. 

Community members will be trained to visually monitor storm sewer and combined sewer outfall pipes for problem releases and educated on proper reporting procedures should they see any problem discharges. High school students will also be trained to identify and assess creek health by measuring the presence of benthic macro invertebrates in multiple locations along the creek. 

Participants (whether groups or individuals) will also be asked to Adopt-a-Pipe, helping to ensure the program and its benefits will become long term and self sustaining. 

Thanks to all who came to our community forum! For those who missed it, here are the results: 

Pipewatch Mid-Project Report // Community Forum Presentation

   What's New With the Project? Follow Our Blog! Click here 

    Why Monitor the Red Hill Valley Creek? Click here

    What Are Outfalls? How Does the System Work? Click here

    Materials (Handbooks, Recording Sheets, etc) Click here

Where are the outfalls? Click here to view our interactive map with detailed information. 

How to Get Involved: 

Interested in getting involved? Great! We are keen to work with both individuals and groups. Please contact Katie at kstiel@environmenthamilton.org or 905-549-0900. Also note that volunteer hours can be awarded to high school students for their participation. 

 This project has received funding support from the Government of Ontario. Such support does not indicate endorsement by the Government of Ontario of the contents of this material.