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- calendar_today November 12, 2026
Introduction: New Fencing Sparks Debate
Some residents in the Mahogany neighbourhood of southeast Calgary are speaking out against a new green plastic mesh fence recently installed around their community's stormwater pond and adjacent naturalized wetlands. The measure was part of a suite of storm pond safety upgrades rolled out by city officials across Calgary this month.
Storm Pond Safety Upgrades Announced
The City of Calgary is implementing a variety of public safety strategies at 15 storm ponds in the city. These upgrades include denser vegetation, permanent fencing, new signage, and, in some locations, temporary green mesh fences. The safety measures follow a series of drowning incidents, including the death of a six-year-old girl at a storm pond in Legacy in July. The total cost of these upgrades is $1.5 million.
Mahogany Community Raises Concerns
According to Rachael Terner, director of communications for the Mahogany Community Association, the recently added green mesh fencing has generated significant discussion among local residents. Complaints include the fencing material’s flimsiness—especially after a recent wind storm left some sections knocked or pulled down—and questions about the gaps between fence sections and the overall effectiveness of the barrier.
Terner noted, “We’d just like to see whether or not there's proof that fencing like this will actually keep people safe.” She also reported hearing concerns that the fencing detracts from the wetlands’ natural beauty and may pose risks to wildlife.
Residents Question Consultation and Wildlife Impact
Shelley Shields, a Mahogany resident, expressed disappointment over the lack of community consultation before the fence was installed. “They're using taxpayer money for a fence that we didn't agree to. And that fact that it won't solve the problem: keeping kids safe,” said Shields.
Residents also worry that wildlife could become trapped in the mesh fencing. These concerns are prompting calls for the community and city officials to collaborate on alternative, possibly more natural, solutions.
Details of the City’s Storm Pond Fencing Project
The City of Calgary stated that three out of fifteen storm ponds receiving upgrades were outfitted with permanent partial fencing, while seven now have temporary seasonal fencing. The remaining locations saw other types of safety enhancements. City Water Services reported receiving 26 calls related to the safety project, with the most feedback coming from Legacy, as well as McKenzie Towne, Copperfield, Auburn Bay, and Mahogany.
While the city acknowledged there was no direct consultation with residents in advance, a spokesperson noted efforts were made to limit fencing to necessary areas and to choose designs fitting the local environment. The city also said wildlife experts were consulted during planning and asserted that the temporary fences should not restrict animal access to water or impact migratory birds.
Next Steps and Ongoing Discussion
Terner indicated the Mahogany Community Association will include the storm pond safety topic in an upcoming meeting with city representatives. She remains hopeful that a more sustainable and visually appealing solution can be found: “It's a very large space. We might have to get a bit creative.”
The debate in Mahogany highlights a broader discussion on balancing storm pond safety, effective fencing, and the preservation of natural spaces within urban communities.
Related coverage
Source: cbc.ca.
