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.
