Have you read the newly released British Columbia Chapter of the Canada in a Changing Climate: Regional Perspectives Report? It details the rise in climate-induced extreme weather events in BC, and Canada.

Not only are these events causing enormous suffering – loss of life, trauma, loss of livestock and property, disruption of work and daily activities, injuries – they are also costing tax payers and governments billions of dollars. The economic impacts of last year’s flooding alone are staggering.

One of the conclusions the report outlines is that managing flood risk in B.C. will continue to be a priority as hazards from riverine, coastal and urban flooding intensify. And this means that climate action in the form of adaptation and risk mitigation measures are crucial.

The report recognizes that municipalities, regional districts and/or First Nations are often primary drivers of flood risk management and that opportunities exist to mainstream flood risk management into existing municipal practices (e.g. integrated storm water master plans, asset management). Research also continues to build a strong economic case for action.

Many communities in British Columbia use low-impact development (LID) practices to significantly improve storm water management and reduce flood risks.

LIDs can be used to:

  • Reduce storm flows
  • Improve water quality
  • Sustain or improve base flows in creeks compared to conventional storm water treatments

LIDs currently being used in B.C. communities include:

  • Rain gardens
  • Green roofs
  • Infiltration galleries
  • Bioswales
  • Soil augmentation
  • Downspout disconnections
  • Lot grading
  • On-lot cisterns/retention systems

Visit www.changingclimate.ca/regional-perspectives/chapter/5-0/ to read the full British Columbia Chapter of the Canada in a Changing Climate: Regional Perspectives Report and learn more about adaptation actions to reduce flood risks.

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