Community Values Drive Bowker Creek Initiative and Blueprint
“The stream restoration work is exciting when one recognizes the glorious project one is part of. It is a tremendous bonding experience: “These are my people and we are of this place.” Working together along the creek is one kind of social glue for the committee members.” states Gerald Harris.
Ian Graeme: Community Champion Demonstrates the "Power of One" in the Bowker Creek Watershed
“The Bowker Creek story is more than about producing a plan. It is about engaging the community. If the community is actively engaged, they will take greater responsibility for delivery. The three municipalities could not deliver a plan for watershed restoration – unless the community drives and supports delivery,” states Ian Graeme.
Community Engagement Drives "Bowker Creek Initiative" in the urban heartland of British Columbia's Capital Region
“It was such a wonderful moment. I saw my neighbourhood differently. As I first began to think in terms of ‘what is a watershed’ and then ‘what is an urban watershed’, I felt connected to the earth. And I felt a responsibility,” recalls Soren Henrich.
Bowker Creek Initiative celebrates 10-year anniversary; recognizes leadership provided by Chair Jody Watson
Jody Watson excels at communicating the vision and instilling a sense of mission that is true to the watershed plan. She has put a lot of emphasis on developing relationships and trust. She is a great communicator and is always looking for opportunities and focussing us on results.
Bigger Pipes or Greener Communities: A Hydrological Assessment of Using Green Infrastructure Practices in British Columbia to Mitigate Future Flooding
“Green infrastructure practices offers a potential strategy for reducing the flood impacts of climate change. Green infrastructure relies on runoff management measures that seek to control rainwater volume at the source by reducing imperviousness and retaining, infiltrating and reusing rainwater,” states Chris Jensen.
United States EPA and City of Philadelphia Sign Landmark "Green City, Clean Waters" Partnership Agreement
“The Green City Clean Waters Plan is our proposal to revitalize our rivers and streams by managing stormwater in a way that provides multiple benefits. It will result in clean and beautiful waterways, a healthier environment and increased community value,” said Mayor Michale Nutter.
Vancouver Island Economic Alliance aligns efforts with CAVI — will play a role in Inter-Regional Education Initiative
Each year, the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) holds a State of the Island Economic Summit. “As a collaborative partnership spearheading regional economic development for the Vancouver Island, we’re thrilled to be part of such a worthwhile initiative. By aligning our organization with CAVI, we can play a role in building strong communities and ensure that careful stewardship of our natural resources is preserved,” stated George Hanson.
VANCOUVER ISLAND: Inter-Regional Education Initiative launched at Cowichan Water Balance Forum
“Through collaboration and alignment of efforts, our goal is to ensure a consistent approach to rainwater management on Vancouver Island, one that mimics the water balance. I am going to be around for at least another ten years; and am excited to think about the future and the great progress we can achieve together in the coming years,” reports Nagi Rizk.
NEW GUIDE: Development Permit Areas for Climate Action in British Columbia
“Combining an environmental protection DPA with a climate action DPA can achieve broader rainwater management goals. A water conservation DPA might include strategies that reduce the demand for potable water (for example, low water use landscaping), and support on-site rainwater infiltration and rainwater capture for re-use,” states the Guide in providing an example of proposed application.
Comox Valley Regional Board endorses Vancouver Island Inter-Regional Education Initiative
“Inter-regional sharing, collaboration, alignment and consistency will accelerate effective implementation of watershed protection objectives within each regional district. The regions are linked by common interests, but are not dependent on each other,” states Comox Valley Board Chair Edwin Grieve.