Inter-Regional Education Initiative: Overview of 2014 Work Plan
Share, Learn and Adapt Over Time
In 2012, the Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia asked the Boards of five regional districts – namely Capital, Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Comox Valley and Metro Vancouver – to endorse local government collaboration under the umbrella of the Inter-Regional Education Initiative (IREI). The partners are now in Year 3 of inter-regional collaboration.
Collaboration Will Help Everyone
“The IREI supports implementation of integrated and watershed-based community planning processes on the east coast of Vancouver Island and in the Lower Mainland. A desired outcome of inter-regional collaboration is accelerated implementation of affordable and effective watershed sustainability and green infrastructure practices,” states Derek Richmond, Chair of CAVI-Convening for Action on Vancouver Island, an initiative of the Partnership for Water Sustainability in British Columbia.
“Year 1 constituted the ‘proof-of-approach’ for aligning efforts. In Year 2, an inter-regional leadership committed to working together to achieve this goal: Restore and/or protect stream and watershed health. In Year 3, the inter-regional deliverable is a workbook on application of performance monitoring approaches that are affordable, effective and adaptive,” continues Kim Stephens, Partnership Executive Director.
Inter-Regional Collaboration Series
“The collaborating regions view the Watershed Health issue through complementary lenses that together form a complete picture. Each region has something unique to contribute to the mix. Hence, the inter-regional leadership team is hosting an Inter-Regional Collaboration Session,” states Kim Stephens.
“The mantra for inter-regional collaboration is framed in these terms: Through sharing and learning, ensure that where we are going in indeed the right way. The set of session outcomes will be compiled in a workbook that provides guidance and would inform anyone involved in a watershed health monitoring process,” adds Jody Watson, Watersheds & Harbours Coordinator, Capital Regional District.
To Learn More:
Download Towards A Watershed Health Legacy in the Georgia Basin – 2014 Work Plan Overview
