“The concept of sustainable urban drainage was introduced in the city of Malmö already in the late 1980s. Over the two decades the new drainage concept has been applied in Malmö, the technique has gradually been developed and further refined. This applies both to the physical planning and to the preferences regarding the technical configuration,” wrote the late Peter Stahre when his book was published.
“To see salmon return to Still Creek after so many decades has been incredibly exciting, especially given that just a few decades ago, this stream was widely viewed as one of Canada’s most polluted waterways. Quite simply, the events that have unfolded on Still Creek highlight the fact that we should never give up on any river,” states Mark Angelo.
“In the latter part of my career, I have been part of a great team that has looked at rainfall differently and shares a vision for what the Bowker Creek watershed can be again. The ‘blueprint for action’ is a perfect example of working with others to improve watershed health long-term, and I am proud to have been part of creating it,” states Steve Fifield.
Bowker Creek restoration is being undertaken in conjunction with replacement of the existing Oak Bay High with a new school, Neighbourhood Learning Centre and new sports fields. “It’s a watershed moment, because it connects the future to all the work that was done in the past,” states Soren Henrich.
“Good engineering practice relies on astute observation and sound deduction. Breakthroughs in practical understanding and application happen when applied scientists ask the right questions: What are the data telling us?,” states Dr. Peter Coombes.
“Using the web-based Drainage Infrastructure Screening Tool, local governments can quickly and inexpensively assess drainage system performance to pinpoint any problem areas. This will help them establish capital budget priorities for detailed analysis during the design process,” states Ted van der Gulik.
“Local Governments are making significant progress in preparing for a changing climate, from vulnerability assessments to comprehensive climate adaptation plans. Throughout these processes, a key challenge has been translating global climate science to local land-use decisions,” states Chris Jensen.
“Many systems operate without serious problems for many years. Yet many engineering studies recommend plans for pipe replacement and upsizing that would cost tens of millions of dollars, money that local governments do not have; while providing no offsetting stream health benefits. Why is this happening?,” asks Kim Stephens.
The innovative designs will serve as prototypes for green rainwater infrastructure throughout Philadelphia. “This design competition will get everyone thinking about the broader community benefits of green stormwater infrastructure. We look forward to seeing the results,” states Beth Miller.
“The Guidebook applied a science-based understanding, developed the water balance methodology to establish performance targets, and demonstrated that urban watershed restoration could be accomplished over a 50-year timeframe as and when communities redevelop,” states Peter Law, Guidebook Chair (2000 – 2002). A decade ago, looking at rainfall differently led the Province of BC to develop the Water Balance Methodology, and initiate a paradigm-shift in the way rainwater is managed. BC was the first provincial or state government in North America to implement the Water Balance Methodology.
