Rainwater Management on Vancouver Island: Report from the VICT Co-Chairs
Local government action and support are resulting in a continuous increase of the number of LID projects which mimic natural rainwater processes such as infiltration.
Local government action and support are resulting in a continuous increase of the number of LID projects which mimic natural rainwater processes such as infiltration.
“Modern rainwater management looks at the dynamics of the entire watershed and identifies how development can use 'green infrastructure' to maintain natural systems and protect buildings. It works to restore the function of trees, soil and open space,” says Calvin Sandborn.
The street retrofit project includes rain gardens and bioretention ponds that are expected to capture up to 90% of the rainwater runoff.
When landscape architect Craig Cawrse set out to construct a new building for his business in South Russell, Ohio, he also embarked on an effort to make it sensitive to the environment and to his residential neighbors.
One of the most celebrated features of the new High Point neighborhood is an elaborate drainage system which works to enhance rainwater management with the result of easing the pace of rainwater drainage into the Longfellow Creek watershed.
Rainwater management is about developing in a way that restores the function and value of trees, soil and open space in our communities. If we develop with long-term sustainability in mind, future generations can enjoy a vibrant city and clean and healthy rivers.
Pervious concrete — the technology Queen Anne's County will use in Bloomfield Farm's parking lots — allows water to drain straight through into a reservoir below the pavement where it can subsequently soak into the ground.
Gary Noble (120p) – City of Nanaimo
Solutions to climate change often originate from small scale community initiatives. This project is an excellent example of local scale action that can provide valuable information. Green roofs have an immense potential for offsetting carbon emissions originating from building operations.
A recently completed rainwater/stormwater management system will remove up to 85% of the stormwater pollutants released into Little Bridge Creek.
‘Green City, Clean Waters’ reimagines the city as an oasis of rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavements, thousands of additional trees, and more. “I believe it’s the most significant investment in transforming the city that we’ll see in our lifetimes,” said Patrick Starr, Pennsylvania Environmental Council. “It will change the way neighborhoods look, the way many streets and blocks look.”