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Hollinger Park was previously a lake that was backfilled with mine tailings. After reviewing historical soil samples, the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) decided to conduct further sampling in 2012 which demonstrated elevated metal concentrations in certain areas of the park. This report was completed in 2014 and shared with the Porcupine Health Unit and the City of Timmins.

Results in the report prompted the City to undertake a thorough sampling program at the park in 2015. After receiving the results of the 2015 soil sampling survey in May 2016, the City of Timmins is being vigilant and will be conducting a more comprehensive assessment at Hollinger Park in the coming months. This sampling indicated there are elevated metals (including antimony, arsenic, and lead) contained within the soil. Higher levels of metals were found in the grassed area of the baseball diamond, south soccer field, north central and bandstand areas. While the levels found are above what would be found in most parks, they are well below levels found in many similar communities in Ontario and Canada with metal smelters or past mining activities. They are not present at levels that would be expected to result in adverse health effects to park users. The city will be doing further testing to determine what additional remedial action is required.

“With the upcoming discussions regarding the five-year plan for the Hollinger Park, we want to ensure that if any digging or capping is required, we include that in the plan,” said Mayor Steve Black. “Sample results have been discussed with representatives from both the MOECC and the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU). The PHU indicated it is not necessary for us to cause alarm or close down the park, but provide regular park users with information and helpful tips to follow during and after using the park.”

The Porcupine Health Unit says there is potential risk associated with high metal levels but at this time have advised regular use of the park may continue. However, they advise people who visit the park to take the following precautions while further testing takes place:

  • Washing hands after time spent at the park, and before eating;
  • Removing outdoor footwear before entering the home;
  • Cleaning any soil or dust that is brought into the home by sweeping, mopping or vacuuming the floors;
  • Brushing pets with a damp brush after time spent at the park and before entering the home.

The City and PHU will continue to work to address the levels in soil at Hollinger Park.

Filed under: Local News