Engaging the Next Generation: Colonel By Students Visit ROPEC

This week, students from Colonel By Secondary School took a deep dive into one of Ottawa’s most critical pieces of infrastructure: the Robert O. Pickard Environmental Centre (ROPEC).

As part of their experiential learning, the students toured the facility to see firsthand how wastewater is treated before being safely returned to the Ottawa River. Guided by experts at the plant, they explored the complex processes that keep our waterways clean and our environment protected—from primary and secondary treatment to disinfection and biosolids management.

But the visit didn’t end there.

Following the tour, I had the opportunity to sit down with the students for a candid conversation about some of the top concerns facing our communities. We discussed the importance of accessible and reliable public transit, the growing challenges around speeding and traffic safety in residential areas, and the urgent need for sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure.

What impressed me most was how engaged and informed these students were. They didn’t just ask good questions—they offered insightful suggestions and demonstrated a clear understanding of how local government decisions shape the world around them. Their passion for environmental protection and public safety is exactly what we need to support the future of our city.

Visits like this are a reminder of the value of hands-on learning and open dialogue. When we give young people the tools, access, and opportunities to explore how their city works, they rise to the occasion—and often bring new energy and ideas that move us all forward.

A sincere thank you to the students and educators of Colonel By Secondary School for such a meaningful visit. Your curiosity, leadership, and commitment to your community give me great confidence in the future of Ottawa.