Environmental compliance

Outdoor (ambient) air quality monitoring includes the measurement and analysis of specific air pollutants, looking at the possible effects to public health and safety. The University of Manitoba utilizes air quality monitoring and analysis provided by the Manitoba Government , along with air quality advisories issued by Environment Canada. 

While air quality in Manitoba is generally good, poor air quality may occur due to events such as wildfires. During an event of prolonged smoke exposure or elevated Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) levels, the University of Manitoba takes several steps to mitigate negative impacts to human health. This includes adjusting building systems to support indoor air quality, limiting outdoor activities as required, and providing clear, consistent communication to the UM Community. 

Any Air Quality Advisories issued to the City of Winnipeg will be reposted in the section below. 

Adjust outdoor activities when reported Air Quality Health Index levels reach "High Risk" or above (7 or higher), speak with your supervisor if necessary.

Air quality advisories

Air Quality is monitored by EHSO and any advisories issued to the City of Winnipeg will be reposted here Monday-Friday at 8:30 am and 1:00 pm. 

There are currently no air quality advisories in effect for Winnipeg or the surrounding areas. Air quality levels are considered good, and no special precautions are required at this time.

Please visit the links below for the most up-to-date warnings and advisories.

Winnipeg - Air Quality Health Index  Winnipeg - Weather Forecast

Wildlife on campus

University of Manitoba campuses are home to a diverse range of urban wildlife, with the land providing important habitat for resident and migratory populations. Our campuses consist of riparian forests, agricultural tracks, water ponds, and urban landscaping that is utilized by a broad range of wildlife including songbirds, Canada geese, ducks, white-tailed deer, falcons, and small terrestrial mammals. 

Whether you are walking, studying, working outdoors, or driving on campus, it is important to stay aware of wildlife activity, especially during the spring season. Geese may nest near building entrances, sidewalks, rooftops, and landscaped areas. If an area is barricaded due to nesting or other wildlife activities, please follow the signage and use alternate routes where possible. 

We can share campus with wildlife respectfully by following these guidelines:

• Never make direct contact with wildlife, including touching or moving the animal, their offspring, or their nests.
• Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid approaching nests or dens. Be mindful of posted signs and avoid areas with active nests.
• If a goose hisses, flaps its wings, or moves toward you, calmly back away and give it space.
• Do NOT feed the wildlife or throw any objects at them. 

Wildlife management plan

The University of Manitoba is committed to minimizing its impact on local wildlife and, wherever possible, allows wildlife to exist and move undisturbed within campus areas. This approach reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible land management, ensuring that interactions with wildlife are avoided unless necessary for safety or regulatory compliance purposes. 

Where there are negative interactions between people, infrastructure, and wildlife, the University of Manitoba uses a Wildlife Management Plan to ensure the best possible outcomes for both our UM Community and the animal species involved. This plan has been developed with specific wildlife populations and legislative requirements in mind, including Canadian legislation such as the Migratory Birds Convention Act and the Species at Risk Act, and provincial legislation such as the Manitoba Wildlife Act and the Manitoba Endangered Species and Ecosystems Act.

Safety questions and concerns

If you witness anyone engaging in harmful behavior toward geese or other wildlife, please report it to Security Services at 204-474-9312.

For removal of dead geese or other wildlife on campus, submit a work order to the Operations & Maintenance Customer Service Desk. 

For concerns about wildlife on campus and safety, contact ehso@umanitoba.ca or 204-474-6633. 

Sewer and stormwater drains

Hazardous materials may not be discharged directly or indirectly into any sewer or stormwater drain. This includes any substance that has hazardous properties or contains hazardous ingredients, as listed by applicable legislation. 

Spill reporting

While prevention of hazardous material spills is the top priority, spills can happen. If a spill does occur, it must be immediately reported to the EHSO who will communicate incidents to all relevant levels of government and stakeholders. 

For active spill response, please refer to the Chemical safety page and call the EHSO main phone line to report (204-474-6633). 

Incident Report Form

The different waste streams at the University of Manitoba include trash (disposal to landfill), various recycling programs, hazardous waste, and electronic waste. Programs for these waste streams align with local regulations while supporting environmental stewardship and campus safety. 

Both staff and students have responsibilities supporting waste reduction, reuse of materials, and recycling initiatives. See specific program links below. 

Hazardous waste program

Office of Sustainability - trash and recycling programs

e-Waste program

There are several types of facilities and activities that require special approvals, permitting or licenses under the MB Environment Act. EHSO provides administrative support and oversight for these items, including liaison with regulators and review of environmental testing or reports. For more information regarding incinerators, manure storage, water treatment facilities, aboveground/underground storage tanks, pesticides, ozone depleting substances or other environmental aspects, contact us.

In addition to reporting required by our environmental permits and licenses, EHSO also prepares and submits other reports required by environmental regulations including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting.