A policy and legal tool called the 'Shared Responsibility Matrix' identifies the actors along with the various instruments that govern their actions. This provides the frame of reference for the Topsoil Primer Set.
“It helps to look back to understand how we got to here. In 2000, DFO released Urban Stormwater Guidelines and Best Management Practices for Protection of Fish and Fish Habitat. It got practitioners thinking about how to capture rainfall in order to reduce runoff volume and protect water quality,” states Corinio Salomi. “The objective is protect stream health, which is broader than how much volume one can infiltrate on a particular development.”
The legislation seeks to increase green infrastructure in rainwater management by creating a program to provide resources for the planning and construction of green infrastructure projects.
“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,” states Calvin Sandborn.
The 'Topsoil Primer Set' synthesizes the experience of City of Surrey, the City of Courtenay and the District of North Vancouver in pioneering implementation of absorbent landscape policies and requirements.
“Policy and legal tools can help developers, regulators and designers collaborate to implement green infrastructure solutions and ensure responsible outcomes. Each party in the process has a responsibility,” states Susan Rutherford.
“The Premier’s Awards are an annual opportunity to publicly recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of the men and women who have chosen public service as their career,” said Premier Campbell.
The American experience provides a frame of reference for comparing the effectiveness of a top-down regulatory approach with the 'bottom-up' educational approach in British Columbia.
An absorbent topsoil layer has emerged as a fundamental building block for achieving water sustainability outcomes through implementation of green infrastructure practices. The Primer Set is an example of Shared Responsibility.
“All of us have an impact on the land, on the water, and on the way things look. We all have a part to play in sustainable development. Bill 27 creates statutory authority for water sustainability action,” stated Susan Rutherford.
