Author Archives: admin

1. “Cathedral thinking is about keeping the living generation tethered to the future,” said Rick Antonson

   October 21, 2017 5:57 pm Comments Off on “Cathedral thinking is about keeping the living generation tethered to the future,” said Rick Antonson

   Note to Reader:

   Cathedral thinking aptly describes the philosophy that guides the work of the Partnership for Water Sustainability in BC. We inform, educate, train and mentor with a view to the long-term and creating a lasting legacy.

   The Partnership’s current leadership team may not be around to witness the fruition of our work. However, we will have made a difference – by raising awareness, translating science-based understanding into methodologies and tools, and helping decision-makers set actions in motion.

   The work of Rick Antonson is a source of inspiration.

   

   Use Cathedral Thinking to
   Create a Brighter Future

   “If you were an architect in the 1400s and your town, your village, your city came to you and asked you to design the new cathedral, you would begin a project which you knew you would not live to see completed,” explained Rick Antonson when interviewed by Nichole Mahoney for a podcast.

   “If I was the stone mason and I was putting in place the foundation blocks or the cornerstone, I’d be doing so knowing that it would be a grandson or a granddaughter, of my own or of a neighbor’s, who would be doing the final touches as the cathedral completed long after I’d passed away.

   “It is the only way to keep the living generation tethered to the future. It’s about doing things today that are very important, intrinsically so, but the beneficiaries may not yet be born.

   “It helps us in a simple way to conceive of the importance of long-term thinking, of being involved, each of us, in unfinished work, and seeing that what we do today has to have way to be built upon, not just by a colleague in contemporary times, but by a son and daughter, a future colleague that may join our firm or our organization or our community long after we ourselves have left it.

   “It is keeping in mind that the details, the importance, the integrity that we approach today’s work with needs to be able to be applicable for others to bring new tools, new skills of a new generation, and continue the good work.”

   To Learn More:

   Download Use Cathedral Thinking to Create a Brighter Future, with Rick Antonson to read the transcript of the complete interview by Nichole Mahoney on Destination On The Left.

   Or, visit http://destinationontheleft.com/rick-antonson/ to access and listen to the podcast.

   Destination On The Left is a podcast focused on the travel and tourism industry that explores successful collaborations, creative marketing ideas and best practices. Interviews are a mix of Destination Marketers, Industry Leaders, Consultants and businesses in the industry. This podcast provides an opportunity for professional in the travel & tourism industry to share what they have learned and successes that they have achieved.

   Rick Antonson is the former president & CEO of the international award-winning destination marketing organization, Tourism Vancouver.

   

   YOUTUBE: Cathedral Thinking Explained by Rick Antonson

   Watch Rick Antonson’s TED Talk on YouTube. He was inspired by the topic on Christmas Eve 2011, when he and his wife visited St. Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh. Impressed with the cathedral’s grandeur, he and his wife discussed how the cathedral’s early architects designed a structure they knew they would not live long enough to see completed.

   Rick’s hope is that each of us begins to see how our actions today have ramifications well into the future, and that while the good of our actions may not be fully realized except through those as yet unborn, they are worth striving for.

2. WATERSHED CASE PROFILE SERIES: Shelly Creek is the City of Parksville’s last fish-bearing stream! – Restore Watershed Hydrology, Prevent Stream Erosion, Ensure Fish Survival (October 2017)

   4:13 pm Comments Off on WATERSHED CASE PROFILE SERIES: Shelly Creek is the City of Parksville’s last fish-bearing stream! – Restore Watershed Hydrology, Prevent Stream Erosion, Ensure Fish Survival (October 2017)

   Note to Reader:

   In October 2017, the Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia released the 6th in the Watershed Case Profile Series. It tells the story of how the Mid Vancouver Island Habitat Enhancement Society is leading by example.

   Download Shelly Creek is Parksville’s last fish-bearing stream! – Restore Watershed Hydrology, Prevent Stream Erosion, Ensure Fish Survival 

   

   DOWNLOAD: https://waterbucket.ca/rm/files/2017/10/Shelly-Creek-Water-Balance-Demonstration_Oct2017.pdf

   Restore Watershed Hydrology, Prevent Stream Erosion,
   Ensure Fish Survival

   “Context is everything!,” wrote Kim Stephens, Partnership Executive Director, in the preface to Shelly Creek is the City of Parksville’s last fish-bearing stream! 

   The Partnership is one of five organizations that co-funded development of the Shelly Creek Water Balance & Sediment Reduction Plan. The Pacific  Salmon Foundation was the primary funder. The other three funders comprised the Mid Vancouver Island Habitat Enhancement Society (MVIHES), City of Parksville and the Regional District of Nanaimo.

   Englishman River / Shelly Creek

   “Shelly Creek is a tributary of the Englishman River, a major watershed system on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Shelly Creek is important to salmonids, and this is why it is necessary to understand what is causing the Shelly Creek stream channel to fill with sediment, as well as what can be done to ensure fish survival over time,” explained Peter Law, MVIHES vice-president. He is also a Partnership Director.

   “In 1999 the Englishman River was first declared to be one of the most endangered rivers in BC. Extinction of the fisheries resource was viewed as a very real possibility. This was the catalyst for action. It resulted in two transformational outcomes: implementation of the Englishman River Watershed Recovery Plan (2001); and creation of the Mid Vancouver Island Habitat Enhancement Society (MVIHES).”

   

   A Voice for the Community

   “Fast forward to the present. Through their involvement in MVIHES, community stewardship volunteers are demonstrating what it means to embrace ‘shared responsibility’ and take the initiative to lead by example,” stated Kim Stephens.

   “A paramount goal is to “get it right” in the stream channel. Their challenge is to move from stop-gap remediation of in-stream problems to long-term restoration of a properly functioning watershed.

   “MVIHES has established a provincial precedent with the Shelly Creek Water Balance & Sediment Reduction Plan; and this will have reverberations as the “Shelly Creek story” becomes well-known.”

   Reflections on Moving from Awareness to Action

   “The Shelly Creek experience foreshadows that an informed stream stewardship sector may prove to be a difference-maker that instigates and accelerates implementation of the ‘whole-system, water balance’ approach in the Georgia Basin region and beyond,” concluded Kim Stephens.

   “As a co-funder, the Partnership is thrilled to have contributed to the Shelly Creek Plan. Our commitment to the Shelly Creek stream stewardship volunteers is to tell their story far and wide. This Watershed Case Profile is the launch of the storytelling process!”

   

   INFORM, EDUCATE, INSPIRE: Apply the “BC Process” for moving from awareness to action.

   Table of Contents

   The table is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   To Learn More:

   To download the 6th in the Watershed Case Profile Series, click on Shelly Creek is Parksville’s last fish-bearing stream! – Restore Watershed Hydrology, Prevent Stream Erosion, Ensure Fish Survival.

   

    

3. WATERSHED CASE PROFILE SERIES: Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township – ‘Design with Nature’ to Create Liveable Neighbourhoods (October 2017)

   3:53 pm Comments Off on WATERSHED CASE PROFILE SERIES: Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township – ‘Design with Nature’ to Create Liveable Neighbourhoods (October 2017)

   Note to Reader:

   The Langley Township story is the fifth in a series of Watershed Blueprint Case Profiles published by the Partnership for Water Sustainability.

   The series showcases and celebrates successes and long-term ‘good work’ in the local government setting.

   The purpose of the series is to inform and facilitate inter-regional collaboration in the Georgia Basin. 

   By telling the stories of those who are spearheading changes in practice, this helps other local governments eliminate the “disconnect between information and implementation” that may otherwise hold them back.

   

   What the reader will learn from
   “The Langley Township Story”

   “Time provides perspective!,” wrote Kim Stephens, Partnership Executive Director, in the preface to Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township.

   “We all learn from stories and the most compelling ones are based on the experiences of champions who are leading by example in their communities. The story of green infrastructure innovation in Langley Township is indeed compelling.

   “In 2007, the Township hosted one of three events in the Metro Vancouver Showcasing Green Infrastructure Innovation Series. A decade later, we have the perspective of time when we reflect on their approach and connect the dots between past, present and future.

   Framework for the Langley Storyline

   “In 2007, the Township chose Harmony and Integration as its theme,” continued Kim Stephens.

   “A decade later, how have things played out?

   “Is the Township accomplishing what it set out to achieve with its bold vision for an attractive and liveable community?

   “Is the land and water stewardship ethic deeply instilled in the corporate culture?

   “What is next on the horizon?”

   “These questions provide a focus for storytelling and create the storyline for this Watershed Case Profile.”

   

   Putting Cathedral Thinking into Practice

   “The stewardship ethic for creating liveable neighbourhoods in Langley is shaped by ‘cathedral thinking’, that is – a far-reaching vision, a well thought-out blueprint, and a shared commitment by elected representatives, staff and community to long-term implementation,” explained Kim Stephens.

   “Design with nature…a whole-system approach…learn by doing and adapt. These three phrases capture the essence of how the Township builds neighbourhoods. The record of success to date is impressive.

   “This Watershed Case Profile celebrates the ‘good work’ done by the Township. By showcasing and sharing the ‘story behind the story’ of green infrastructure innovation, our hope is that other communities will learn from Township experience.

   “Langley is demonstrating the critical success factors that must be in play to achieve a vision for Sustainable Watershed Systems, through Asset Management,” concluded Kim Stephens.

   

   To Learn More:

   To read the complete story, download a copy of the Watershed Case Profile. Click on Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

   The Table of Contents below is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   

4. BLUE ECOLOGY WORKSHOP – MODULE 1 (Nov 28, 2017): “The Fraser River’s diversity – including people and landscapes – inspires me. However, we need to apply ‘Watershed CPR’ to the Fraser to return it to health,” says Fin Donnelly – Member of Parliament, founder & Chair of the Rivershed Society of British Columbia

   October 20, 2017 8:08 am Comments Off on BLUE ECOLOGY WORKSHOP – MODULE 1 (Nov 28, 2017): “The Fraser River’s diversity – including people and landscapes – inspires me. However, we need to apply ‘Watershed CPR’ to the Fraser to return it to health,” says Fin Donnelly – Member of Parliament, founder & Chair of the Rivershed Society of British Columbia

   Note to Reader:

   The flood, drought and fire extremes of 2017 provide both the backdrop and a focus for the Blue Ecology Workshop on November 28th in Richmond. It need not be doom and gloom. There is hope for future generations – especially if we take a water-first approach to setting priorities. The process for adapting to a changing climate starts with an attitude change. Actually adapting requires transformational changes in how we apply hydrologic understanding, value nature, and service land – this is a unifying theme for the Blue Ecology Workshop.

   

   Designed to be a conversation starter, the Blue Ecology Workshop will have a town-hall format to create a ‘sharing & learning’ atmosphere for interaction between the audience and the presentation team. Michael Blackstock will be joined by two ‘water champions’ who have achieved national prominence – Member of Parliament Fin Donnelly, who has twice swum the length of the Fraser; and the CBC’s Bob McDonald, host of Quirks & Quarks – along with a supporting cast from the Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia.

   TO REGISTER, VISIT: https://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2017/Blue-Ecology

   

   The four featured presenters on the Blue Ecology Workshop team

   Module 1 – Connect the Drops

   “The gravity of the situation calls for application of Sustainable Service Delivery principles to watershed restoration in the built environment,” states Kim Stephens, Executive Director, Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia.

   “Successful implementation depends on all the players – in particular politicians, planners, landowners, designers, implementers and asset managers – collectively choosing to embrace a ‘design with nature’ philosophical foundation.

   “We must collaborate to then adapt our land use, infrastructure servicing and asset management practices appropriately!”

   Interweaving Means…

   “Hydrologists and water managers can help build a brighter future by rediscovering the meaning of water, and interweaving the predominant Western analytical models with the more intuitive indigenous models,” states Michael Blackstock.

   “Blue Ecology’s philosophy is meant to be the bridge between these two cultural ways of knowing.”

   

   Vision for a Water-Resilient Future

   “Michael Blackstock has a vision for water. It is all-embracing. He asks us to look at water and the landscape differently,” states Fin Donnelly.

   “Also, his Blue Ecology concept for ‘interweaving’ Western and Indigenous thought goes to the heart of bringing different worlds together.

   “I share that vision; and was humbled when the Partnership for Water Sustainability invited me to add my ‘riversheds perspective’ to the Blue Ecology Workshop program.”

   Bring Different Worlds Together

   “I am excited to join the Blue Ecology Workshop team because the Partnership for Water Sustainability is a dynamic network of water professionals. Provincially significant, the Partnership does excellent work and has quietly grown in stature through its accomplishments over time.

   “I like that the Partnership encourages water professionals to think in a new way – of the land, from the land.

   “I can relate to Michael Blackstock’s Blue Ecology vision in that it interweaves Western science with Indigenous traditional knowledge. In 1997, after my first Fraser River swim, the Squamish Nation honoured me with the name Iyim Yewyews, which means strong ‘swimmer in the animal world’ or orca. As  steward of the sea the orca’s role is to ensure salmon are plentiful. If  salmon flourish, then so will the orca. This is my life’s mission.”

   

   Orcas (killer whales) jumping

   Reflections on the Summer of 2017

   “We are now seeing the evidence pile up to confirm that the climate is indeed changing. Floods, drought and forest fires are occurring in rapid succession. Over the past Labour Day weekend, my trip through the Fraser’s interior brought home to me the impact of what the ‘new normal’ looks, feels and even smells like,” says Fin Donnelly.

   The New Normal

   “The experience was eerily strange. The roads were clear on what would normally be a busy weekend. The landscape on both sides was burned and scarred. There were no animals to be seen, and few people. There was a smell and taste in the air of burnt ash. In short, the aftermath of the forest fires was raw and real.

   “I couldn’t imagine what it must have been like during the fires. The experience left me wondering – how can we live in these conditions, especially knowing these conditions are anticipated to intensify.”

   “The impacts and consequences of this summer’s fires will be far-reaching. In a single forest fire season, British Columbia reportedly lost more than 5% of its Annual Allowable Cut of harvestable timber. The economic impacts on forestry dependent communities will be substantial.

   “And the impacts on watershed hydrology will be just as significant. For years to come, Fraser River water levels (high and low) and quality will be affected. This all points to the importance of having a basin-wide strategy for climate adaptation and restoration.”

   

   Watershed, Rivershed,
   What’s the Difference?

   “The Fraser River is my passion. The Fraser is one of the most diverse river basins in North America. The Fraser’s diversity, of both people and landscapes – is what inspires me,” explains Fin Donnelly.

   “I use the term rivershed because it is more place-specific than watershed. It encourages a mental shift from human settlement to the larger interconnected natural environment.”

   

   Restore the Fraser River

   “I learned about the issues threatening the health of BC’s longest river in university. I experienced those issues and drew attention to the world’s greatest salmon river in a unique way, by twice swimming its 1,400km length. And because the need for Watershed CPR (Conservation-Protection-Restoration) is urgent, my goal is to inspire and encourage British Columbians to take action and apply CPR.”

   The Call to Action

   “When collaboration is a common or shared value, the right mix of people and perspectives will create the conditions for change. We need a paradigm-shift in the way we do things. My call to action involves ‘taking advantage of the entire water network’! Ask yourself – who will be helpful as we interweave perspectives on our journey to become water-resilient?”

   

   TO REGISTER, VISIT: https://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/event/2017/Blue-Ecology

    

5. CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township – ‘Design with Nature’ to Create Liveable Neighbourhoods” – Watershed Case Profile released by Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia (October 2017)

   October 8, 2017 5:00 pm Comments Off on CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township – ‘Design with Nature’ to Create Liveable Neighbourhoods” – Watershed Case Profile released by Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia (October 2017)

   Note to Reader:

   The Langley Township story is the fifth in a series of Watershed Blueprint Case Profiles published by the Partnership for Water Sustainability.

   The series showcases and celebrates successes and long-term ‘good work’ in the local government setting.

   The purpose of the series is to inform and facilitate inter-regional collaboration in the Georgia Basin. 

   By telling the stories of those who are spearheading changes in practice, this helps other local governments eliminate the “disconnect between information and implementation” that may otherwise hold them back.

   

   What the reader will learn from
   “The Langley Township Story”

   “Time provides perspective!,” wrote Kim Stephens, Partnership Executive Director, in the preface to Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township.

   “We all learn from stories and the most compelling ones are based on the experiences of champions who are leading by example in their communities. The story of green infrastructure innovation in Langley Township is indeed compelling.

   “In 2007, the Township hosted one of three events in the Metro Vancouver Showcasing Green Infrastructure Innovation Series. A decade later, we have the perspective of time when we reflect on their approach and connect the dots between past, present and future.

   Framework for the Langley Storyline

   “In 2007, the Township chose Harmony and Integration as its theme,” continued Kim Stephens.

   “A decade later, how have things played out?

   “Is the Township accomplishing what it set out to achieve with its bold vision for an attractive and liveable community?

   “Is the land and water stewardship ethic deeply instilled in the corporate culture?

   “What is next on the horizon?”

   “These questions provide a focus for storytelling and create the storyline for this Watershed Case Profile.”

   

   Putting Cathedral Thinking into Practice

   “The stewardship ethic for creating liveable neighbourhoods in Langley is shaped by ‘cathedral thinking’, that is – a far-reaching vision, a well thought-out blueprint, and a shared commitment by elected representatives, staff and community to long-term implementation,” explained Kim Stephens.

   “Design with nature…a whole-system approach…learn by doing and adapt. These three phrases capture the essence of how the Township builds neighbourhoods. The record of success to date is impressive.

   “This Watershed Case Profile celebrates the ‘good work’ done by the Township. By showcasing and sharing the ‘story behind the story’ of green infrastructure innovation, our hope is that other communities will learn from Township experience.

   “Langley is demonstrating the critical success factors that must be in play to achieve a vision for Sustainable Watershed Systems, through Asset Management,” concluded Kim Stephens.

   

   To Learn More:

   To read the complete story, download a copy of the Watershed Case Profile. Click on Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

   “There are many staff members that have made this happen,” stated Mayor Jack Froese. “Council makes policy and we approve policies. And then it is our wonderful staff that carry out the policies. And so, I certainly want to recognize the work that they have done.”

   The Table of Contents below is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   

6. CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: Moving ahead on a ‘green’ platform has gained positive momentum as Council has found it easy to support green infrastructure innovation that protects groundwater supply and fisheries habitat

   4:00 pm Comments Off on CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: Moving ahead on a ‘green’ platform has gained positive momentum as Council has found it easy to support green infrastructure innovation that protects groundwater supply and fisheries habitat

   Note to Reader:

   The Langley Township story is the fifth in a series of Watershed Blueprint Case Profiles published by the Partnership for Water Sustainability.

   The series showcases and celebrates successes and long-term ‘good work’ in the local government setting.

   The purpose of the series is to inform and facilitate inter-regional collaboration in the Georgia Basin. 

   By telling the stories of those who are spearheading changes in practice, this helps other local governments eliminate the “disconnect between information and implementation” that may otherwise hold them back.

   

   Showcasing Spurs Innovation

   The Township of Langley was a co-host for Showcasing Green Infrastructure Innovation in Metro Vancouver: The 2007 Series, organized by the Green Infrastructure Partnership.

   The 2007 showcasing event is the natural jumping off point for the Watershed Case Profile. It is a defined moment in time. It serves as a benchmark for judging progress.

   Quotable quotes from 2007 are especially valuable. They capture the moment. And a decade later, they were a useful conversation starter to prompt reflection by Township staff.

   “The Township is a community of 113,000 of which 75% of the land area is within the Agricultural Land Reserve,” stated Councillor Charlie Fox in his opening address at the 2007 event.

   “This presents a delicate balance between the preservation of agricultural land and the continued pressure for urban development. It is within this context that the staff and Council champion the theme of harmony and integration as we endeavour to focus on ‘green’ initiatives and programs.”

   Showcasing innovation and celebrating successes promotes networking, builds regional capacity, and helps local governments within the Georgia Basin move ‘from awareness to action’ – through sharing of green infrastructure approaches, tools, experiences and lessons learned as an outcome of designing with nature.

   Looking back, successive showcasing series on both sides of the Georgia Basin during the period 2006 through 2008 created a ripple effect that spurred even more innovation.

   Moving Ahead on a Green Platform

   Resource protection – for groundwater supply and fisheries habitat – is the original driver for implementing ‘green infrastructure’ in Langley.

   For the past decade and a half, Township staff have been learning and adapting. Their experience is reflected in HOW implementation of Langley’s rain garden program has evolved in successive development areas.

   In 2017, rain gardens are standard practice in the Township, and standard practice is evolving. Moving ahead on a ‘green’ platform has gained positive momentum in the Township as Council has found it easy to support the initiatives of the staff.

   To Learn More:

   To read the complete story, download a copy of the Watershed Case Profile. Click on Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

   The Table of Contents below is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   

7. CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “A presentation many years ago by Patrick Condon put me on the path to integration. Patrick’s storytelling made me realize that everything we do has an effect somewhere else,” says Ramin Seifi, the Township’s General Manager of Engineering & Community Development

   3:30 pm Comments Off on CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “A presentation many years ago by Patrick Condon put me on the path to integration. Patrick’s storytelling made me realize that everything we do has an effect somewhere else,” says Ramin Seifi, the Township’s General Manager of Engineering & Community Development

   Note to Reader:

   The ‘blue link’ in the photo below is the new drainage standard in Langley. It replaces the traditional curb-and-gutter detail for all but arterial roadways.

   The blue link is symbolic of the transformational change which has taken root in the Township over the past decade-and-a-half as designing with nature has become the ‘new normal’.

   

   The ‘blue link’ on 204 Street at 82nd Avenue

   NEW PUBLICATION: Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township (British Columbia)

   Time provides perspective!

   We all learn from stories and the most compelling ones are based on the experiences of champions who are leading by example in their communities. The story of green infrastructure innovation in Langley Township is indeed compelling.

   In 2007, the Township hosted one of three events in the Metro Vancouver Showcasing Green Infrastructure Innovation Series. A decade later, we have the perspective of time when we reflect on their approach and connect the dots between past, present and future.

   In 2007, the Township chose Harmony and Integration as its theme. A decade later, how have things played out? Is the Township accomplishing what it set out to achieve with its bold vision for an attractive and liveable community? Is the land and water stewardship ethic deeply instilled in the corporate culture? What is next on the horizon?

   These questions provided a focus for storytelling and created the storyline for Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released today by the Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia.

   To Learn More:

   Download Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township 

   

   Rain Gardens on 208A Street at 69A Avenue, Langley

   Cathedral Thinking

   The stewardship ethic for creating liveable neighbourhoods in Langley is shaped by “cathedral thinking”, that is – a far-reaching vision, a well thought-out blueprint, and a shared commitment by elected representatives, staff and community to long-term implementation.

   Celebrate ‘Good Work’

   Design with nature, a whole-system approach, learn by doing and adapt. These three phrases capture the essence of how the Township builds neighbourhoods. The record of success to date is impressive.

   This Watershed Case Profile celebrates the ‘good work’ done by the Township. By showcasing and sharing the ‘story behind the story’ of green infrastructure innovation, the Partnership for Water Sustainability hopes is that other communities will learn from Township experience. Langley is demonstrating the critical success factors that must be in play to achieve a vision for Sustainable Watershed Systems, through Asset Management.

   Integration in Action

   “When the previous General Manager of Engineering retired in 2011, our Chief Administrative Officer listened when I presented the case for doing both jobs – Engineering and Community Development,” stated Ramin Seifi.

   “The Township needed more integration to respond to the demands on infrastructure and the risks to the environment resulting from rapid population growth. Achieving integration depended on the Township having a better structure.

   “Replacement of curb-and-gutter with a ‘blue link’ rain garden is a perfect illustration of integration in action. Everyone could see that it made sense. Because I could see the need from all angles, I said to staff ‘just do it’. Integration helps everyone get it.”

   Going Beyond Staff

   “The adaptive process for implementing green infrastructure is ongoing. Each time we learn. We strive to find better ways to mimic nature and protect the natural water balance in Langley’s watersheds,” states Ramin Seifi.

   Educate the Community

   “But the public does not see integration. This means the next step is to educate the community as a whole so that everyone understands the importance of green infrastructure and protecting the water cycle. Buy-in has to be from everyone.

   “Time is of the essence to get buy-in, especially with the population currently projected to double. People are attracted to Langley because it is a community of choice. Protecting the natural values that make Langley attractive underscores the importance of going beyond staff to inform and educate homeowners. Achieving this outcome will require that we go door-to door.”

   Table of Contents

   The table is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   TO DOWNLOAD A COPY:

   http://waterbucket.ca/cfa/files/2017/10/Green-Infrastructure-Innovation-in-Langley-Township_Oct-2017.pdf

   

8. CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “When we are in harmony with nature, things will go well,” stated Colin Wright, former General Manager of Engineering (2004-2011)

   3:00 pm Comments Off on CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “When we are in harmony with nature, things will go well,” stated Colin Wright, former General Manager of Engineering (2004-2011)

   Note to Reader:

   The Langley Township story is the fifth in a series of Watershed Blueprint Case Profiles published by the Partnership for Water Sustainability.

   The series showcases and celebrates successes and long-term ‘good work’ in the local government setting.

   The purpose of the series is to inform and facilitate inter-regional collaboration in the Georgia Basin. 

   By telling the stories of those who are spearheading changes in practice, this helps other local governments eliminate the “disconnect between information and implementation” that may otherwise hold them back.

   Harmony and Integration

   Titled Harmony and Integration, the Langley event in October 2007 showcased what could be accomplished with large-scale projects when Council, the community and staff are in alignment and embrace a ‘green culture’.

   Colin Wright (former General Manager, Engineering) and Ramin Seifi (then the Acting General Manager, Planning and Development Services) stood side-by-side to explain the significance and relevance of the Harmony and Integration theme.

   When Colin Wright retired, Ramin Seifi became General Manager, Engineering and Community Development. His combined portfolio personifies integration.

   

   Ramin Seifi (L) and Colin Wright (R) in 2007 as they co-presented at the Showcasing Green Infrastructure event hosted by the Township of Langley

   How to Move from Research to Implementation

   “What we are showcasing today is the outcome of years of inter-departmental collaboration,” stated Ramin Seifi in 2007. “It was not a random decision to choose Harmony and Integration as the theme for this Showcasing Innovation event. It captures our core values.”

   Ramin added that he is a living example of integration because he is an engineer who heads the planning department. He then elaborated on Langley’s Sustainability Charter.

   “After many years of what you would call research, we are now in the developmental phase. Although the Sustainability Charter is high level, it will guide us in terms of providing focus and monitoring progress. Each Charter goal has a supporting set of objectives complete with specific actions,” explained Ramin Seifi.

   To illustrate what this meant, he referred to the Environmental Goal and the related objectives for conserving water, reducing energy use, and improving rainwater (stormwater) runoff quality.

   “We will be monitoring and measuring what matters. This will enable residents and Council to maintain their focus over time,” concluded Ramin Seifi at the 2007 event.

   Design with Nature

   “As municipalities, we are the focal point. We have to show leadership on-the-ground if our society is to achieve sustainability. In Langley, we believe there is a sea-change about to happen. The community is ready for green infrastructure,” stated Colin Wright in 2007.

   “When people ask what do I do, my answer is that I build cities. To do that, and do it well, we have to be in harmony with nature.

   “When we are in harmony with nature, things will go well. This also applies to our corporate philosophy at Langley Township. We are working together and in harmony.”

   To Learn More:

   To read the complete story, download a copy of the Watershed Case Profile. Click on Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

   The Table of Contents below is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   

9. CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “Integration allows us to cascade from watershed planning down to the site,” stated Stephen Richardson, the Township’s Director of Development Services

   2:00 pm Comments Off on CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “Integration allows us to cascade from watershed planning down to the site,” stated Stephen Richardson, the Township’s Director of Development Services

   Note to Reader:

   The Langley Township story is the fifth in a series of Watershed Blueprint Case Profiles published by the Partnership for Water Sustainability.

   The series showcases and celebrates successes and long-term ‘good work’ in the local government setting.

   The purpose of the series is to inform and facilitate inter-regional collaboration in the Georgia Basin. 

   By telling the stories of those who are spearheading changes in practice, this helps other local governments eliminate the “disconnect between information and implementation” that may otherwise hold them back.

   

   Integration of Perspectives:
   Three Groups in One Section

   When interviewing Township staff, an obvious question is this: As staff come and go over time, how does the organization sustain the guiding philosophy, core values, and way of doing daily business that are embodied in the phrase ‘harmony and integration’?

   Expressed more succinctly, how does one instil a stewardship ethic in the corporate culture so that the legacy would be lasting?

   The Township is progressing on an inter-generational journey. In 2007, Ramin Seifi and Colin Wright painted a bold vision of a sea-change that would lead to a green infrastructure future.

   A decade later, the evidence on the ground proves that the ‘green’ vision does indeed have substance. By designing with nature, the outcome would be sustainable watershed systems.

   Quotable Quote:

   “The shaping of land for human use ought to be based on an understanding of natural process,” wrote Ian McHarg (1920-2001). He was a renowned landscape architect, writer, educator, “father of GIS”, founder of environmental planning, and author of Design With Nature (1967), one of the most influential works of its kind.

   The Whole is Greater Than the Sum of its Parts

   The Community Development Division includes the Development Services section. Stephen Richardson is the section Director. Reporting to Ramin Seifi, he has been with the Township since 2010. The instant Stephen read the 2007 collaboration quote (see below) by Ramin Seifi, he emphatically stated that:

   “Inter-department collaboration has continued; and it has been strengthened through the decision to house three groups in one section. My section, Development Services, has three departments – Development Planning, Development Engineering and Green Infrastructure Services. This integration allows us to cascade from watershed planning down to the site.”

   “Integration leads to efficiencies,” stressed Stephen Richardson. To illustrate his point, he pointed to three piles of documentation around his office, one from each department.

   “The purpose in having the three groups within one section is to integrate the pieces of any development proposal. So, in terms of the three professional disciplines represented by the departments, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. This synergy allows us to catch the pieces that might otherwise be missed.”

   Quotable Quote:

   “What we are showcasing today is the outcome of years of inter-departmental collaboration,” stated Ramin Seifi in 2007. “It was not a random decision to choose Harmony and Integration as the theme for this Showcasing Innovation event. It captures our core values.” Ramin added that he is a living example of integration because he is an engineer who heads the planning department.

   To Learn More:

   To read the complete story, download a copy of the Watershed Case Profile. Click on Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

   The Table of Contents below is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.

   

10. CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “The Township is a living demonstration of adaptive management in action,” wrote Kim Stephens in the Watershed Case Profile released by Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia (October 2017)

    1:30 pm Comments Off on CREATING THE FUTURE IN THE TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY: “The Township is a living demonstration of adaptive management in action,” wrote Kim Stephens in the Watershed Case Profile released by Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia (October 2017)

    Note to Reader:

    The Langley Township story is the fifth in a series of Watershed Blueprint Case Profiles published by the Partnership for Water Sustainability.

    The series showcases and celebrates successes and long-term ‘good work’ in the local government setting.

    The purpose of the series is to inform and facilitate inter-regional collaboration in the Georgia Basin. 

    By telling the stories of those who are spearheading changes in practice, this helps other local governments eliminate the “disconnect between information and implementation” that may otherwise hold them back.

    

    Integration: How it is Embedded

    “During the interviews with staff, their explanations of process made it clear that the Township is a living demonstration of adaptive management in action,” wrote Kim Stephens, Partnership Executive Director and author of Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

    “The essence of the adaptive approach is to ‘learn by doing’ and to change direction when there is a better way.

    “The 2007 showcasing series focused attention on the BC process for ‘convening for action’. The 4-phase process (illustrated below) is incremental. It requires time and commitment. The hardest gap to bridge is that between WHAT and SO WHAT. The Township has done that, and has gone full circle.”

    ‘Convening for Action’ means…

    “Use what we have learned so that we can take action and make a difference in our professional lives. That difference is to change the way we develop land.”

    Context statement by Ray Fung, representing the Green Infrastructure Partnership, at the start of the 2007 Showcasing Innovation in Langley event.

    

    Convening for Action in Langley

    “Technical teams input to long-range planning,” stated Stephen Richardson, Director, Development Services. “There is a constant feedback loop. We raise the bar each time through an iterative process. This strengthens standards of practice. The continual enhancements are reflected in our neighbourhood plans.

    “The structure is set up to support good ideas of an integrated nature so that staff can flourish in the work environment. It is a team approach. Staff share and learn from each other.”

    To Learn More:

    To read the complete story, download a copy of the Watershed Case Profile. Click on Green Infrastructure Innovation in Langley Township, released in October 2017.

    The Table of Contents below is a synopsis. It distills the essence of each section into a succinct statement. These create a storyline. Readers are asked to pause and reflect on them before reading the story itself.