Convening for Action in British Columbia

“Local governments are demonstrating what can be accomplished through partnerships and collaboration. Moving from awareness to action is ultimately keyed to a ‘regional team approach’ that is founded on shared responsibility,” states John Finnie.

“OKIM is the acronym for Okanagan Irrigation Management,” stated Ted van der Gulilk. “This online tool allows landowners to obtain information on metered water use, calculated theoretical water demand, and land use data for their properties.”

“Our actions show that the Board members believe in sustainability. Through the Urban Containment Boundary, we have avoided urban sprawl and we are doing our best to do what is right; and that is why the RDN Board is both supporting and partnering with CAVI. As a Board, we believe it is our job to protect the quality of life values that attract people to Vancouver Island,” stated Chair Joe Stanhope.

“Who would have thought that we would have progressed so far over the course of my career. We have gone from viewing the environment as being something to be pulled apart…. to the situation today where environment is a major issue in economic equations,” stated Kevin Lagan.

“As CAVI Chair, John has provided strong and effective leadership for more than three years. His personal/professional credibility has been a key ingredient in establishing the legitimacy of CAVI in the minds of local government politicians and staff. John has been consistent in his vision and input,” stated Jack Bryden, speaking on behalf of BCWWA.

The ‘design with nature’ paradigm is borrowed from the seminal book by Ian McHarg because it captures the essence of climate change adaptation. Adaptation is about responding to the changes that will inevitably occur. Adaptation is at the community level and is therefore about collaboration.

“The 2008 Learning Lunch Series was the first step in building a regional team approach….so that there would be a common understanding and consistent expectations for rainwater management and green infrastructure in the Cowichan Valley. This was followed by the Cowichan Valley Water Balance Model Forum,” stated Kate Miller.

“In recent years rainwater management practices have been developed that can make the 21st century Green City possible – a city that designs rainwater management in concert with natural systems, not at cross purposes,” states Calvin Sanborn.

“We will use this coming together of BC's local leaders to share and learn from each other's experiences, and gain ideas to move our own communities forward,” said Harry Nyce. “The spirit of collaboration and newfound bonds that we have fostered in 2010 are undeniably valuable. But without action, we cannot move our communities forward. This year’s Convention will offer an opportunity to…. take our goals, and forge them into tangible outcomes….and continue to build gold medal standard communities.”

“The City of Kelowna assisted with the rollout of the Guidebook and pre-launch of the WBM in Spring 2003 in communities such as Penticton and Prince George. The participation of the City’s Alan Newcombe (Drainage Manager) in our road show added credibility,” recalls Ted van der Gulik. “In 2005, the City of Kelowna (John Vos) was the catalyst for a series of events that broadened the reach of the WBM