Harmony Wetlands

Harmony Lake is the source of drinking water for the community of Harmony, west of Calgary, so extra care was taken to protect it from runoff. Urban Systems designed three constructed wetlands as part of a wider set of measures to protect the lake. Two of the wetlands combine deep pools, shallow areas with dense plants, and dry areas that flood during large storms. They treat runoff as sediment settles in open water and as soil and plants filter it and take up nutrients. The third is a subsurface gravel wetland. It has no permanent open water, but uses a gravel layer below the surface to remove extra nutrients. Along with treating runoff, the wetlands add natural beauty to the community and create habitat for wildlife.