NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
Building for Water Creating Beautiful Communities with Stormwater Retention
Municipal Co-digestion
Tracking Water Assets
Drowning in Plastics
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Mark your calendars! CANADIAN WATER SUMMIT VOLUME 20 NUMBER 6 JUNE 9 -11, 2021 • OTTAWA
WASTEWATER WATER RESOURCES
8 Municipal Co-digestion 22 Pathways to Partnerships Harnessing the power of Engaging the community in wastewater resources to an effort to create stronger create energy for watershed governance. the community. 8 BY OLIVER BRANDES BY SIMRAN CHATTHA AND ROSIE SIMMS
STORMWATER POLICY
12 The Future of 25 Drowning in Plastics Stormwater Management A report from Oceana Canada How updated guidelines are exposes the extreme impacts of plastic likely to change the way waste on the Canadian coastline. we treat stormwater. BY ANDREW MACKLIN 12 BY NICK MOCAN EDUCATION DRINKING WATER 28 Overcoming 14 Shared Responsibility Social Challenges What the federal government Building new ways to improve is doing to provide safe the diversity of community drinking water for all Canadians. water management. BY ELAINE HO BY SIMRAN CHATTHA 17 INFRASTRUCTURE DEPARTMENTS
17 Building the Case 5 Editor’s Note ANDREW MACKLIN on the need Understanding the economic for water considerations as part viability of building of a transformative investment. green infrastructure at the community, commercial, 6 Front and industrial level. New Criteria for Lead Leaching,
BY ALYSSA KELLY Investment in Environmental 23 AND ERIC MELITON Spill Response 33 People & Events 20 Tracking Water Assets Appointments, announcements, Protecting existing water and event reports infrastructure during the construction of one of 34 H2Opinion Canada’s largest transit projects. Turning Wastewater into Gold
BY BRIAN BELL BY LEE JACKSON
28
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 3
EDITOR’S NOTE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Transformative VOLUME 20 NUMBER 6 Irrigation MANAGING EDITOR Andrew Macklin BY ANDREW MACKLIN
GROUP PUBLISHER THE CANADA INFRASTRUCTURE BANK water resource management” among Todd Latham (the Bank) has always felt like one of other things. PUBLISHER Nick Krukowski those funding tools that really could At surface level, this is a very help the water sector, but only as an good announcement. There is a ART DIRECTOR AND SENIOR DESIGNER Donna Endacott absolute last resort. There is money demonstrated need for large-scale
ASSOCIATE EDITOR there to get water infrastructure built, support of agricultural development, Simran Chattha that we know, but the cost of doing especially in western Canada, and this DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR that sort of business has never had a provides real government funding to Becky Umweni ton of appeal. The thought of giving support an infrastructure initiative DIGITAL EDITOR up such an important municipal that could ultimately help the Connie Vitello revenue stream just to get the new entire country. EVENT MANAGER infrastructure built just isn’t all But with everything that the Bank Natasha Mawji that palatable. does comes due diligence, and that CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS One community took advantage of will be key to whether or not this Brian Bell, Oliver Brandes, Elaine Ho, Lee Jackson, Alyssa Kelly, Eric Meliton, the opportunity, the Town of Mapleton truly is a positive project for everyone Nick Mocan, Rosie Simms is Ontario, which could provide an involved. There are significant ADVERTISING example for why it might be a good concerns with agricultural runoff Nick Krukowski [email protected] idea after all. But we’ll have to wait including fertilizers, pesticides, ADVISORS a few years to see how that situation manure, and nitrogen leaching into Nick Reid, James Sbrolla plays out. our watersheds. Bringing these new WATER AMBASSADOR In early October, Prime Minister farmlands online, without addressing Lee Scarlett Justin Trudeau announced a more the impacts that farming has on our targeted approach to the Bank’s lakes, rivers, and oceans would have priorities for project evaluation and serious environmental and fiscal investment, a new Growth Plan. impacts in the medium and long term. It identified five categories where It will be important in the months investments would be made in the ahead for the Canadian water industry short-term future, with $9.5 billion to make its voice heard as the Bank expected to be spent in those five continues with this ‘transformative’ areas. Four of them were pretty investment opportunity. Spending the well expected based on the Bank’s money without addressing the issues Water Canada is published six original mandate (zero emission will create an even bigger financial times a year by Actual Media Inc. buses, energy retrofits, broadband, headache for municipal, provincial, and clean power), but a fifth caught and federal budgets in the future. ACTUAL MEDIA INC. many people by surprise: agriculture- Let’s hope the Bank does its 150 Eglinton Ave. E, #806, Toronto, ON, Canada M4P 1E8 Phone: 416-444-5842 related infrastructure. due diligence on investing in the In the summary of the Growth agriculture sector and sets an Subscription/customer services: Plan, the Bank identified that it was example for the rest of the country 416-444-5842 ext. 7 ear-marking $1.5 billion that “will WC Water Canada subscriptions are available to follow. for $39.95/year or $64.95/two years. initially focus on transformative ©2020 Actual Media Inc. All rights reserved. irrigation infrastructure projects, The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means in whole or in part, which are high priorities.” It also without prior written consent from the publisher. stated that it could lead to upwards Andrew Macklin is the Printed in Canada. of “700,000 acres of newly irrigated managing editor of Water Canada. land, which can lead to […] improved [email protected]
For daily news and discussion, visit Undeliverable mail return to: 150 Eglinton Ave. E, #806, Toronto, ON, Canada M4P 1E8 @CanadianWater /WaterCanada WaterCanada Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement 40854046 ISSN 1715-670X
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 5 FEATURE CONTRIBUTORS FRONT
OLIVER BRANDES Oliver is the co-director of the POLIS Project on Ecological Governance. PG. 22
ELAINE HO Elaine is a PhD candidate at the University of Waterloo. PG. 28
NICK MOCAN Nick is the president of Crozier Consulting Engineers. PG. 12
ROSIE SIMMS Rosie is a researcher and project manager at the POLIS Water Sustainability Project. PG. 22 New Criteria in Drinking Water Standard Tighten
ABOUT THE COVER Lead Leaching Allowance With new stormwater from Plumbing Products regulations coming, NEWLY PUBLISHED CHANGES to NSF/ is pleased to have been a part of this residential developers will ANSI/CAN 61, the drinking water important update to reduce lead from need to find ways to use product standard required in the our drinking water.” water to improve the value United States and Canada, further The more stringent pass/fail criteria for of their build. For more on restrict the amount of lead that can certification to the standard will require leach from plumbing products. the maximum amount of lead leaching this story, turn to page 12. According to NSF International, to be reduced from five micrograms the significantly more rigorous (µg) to one µg for plumbing endpoint requirements were approved after devices that dispense drinking water Coming up in the next issue: nearly three years of exploring various such as faucets. The standard will also JANUARY/FEBRUARY testing methods to reduce lead require the maximum amount of lead leaching from endpoint devices that leaching from three µg to 0.5 µg for other dispense drinking water, as well as plumbing components such as connector THE from other plumbing components. hoses and small shut-off valves. FIRST NATIONS “Aggressive lead-monitoring “These new lower requirements for programs are being carried out lead leaching into drinking water are WATER ISSUE in schools, day care centres, and important changes that add extra levels communities in an ongoing public of protection for families,” said France Meeting the Deadline health protection effort,” said Lemieux, chair of the Joint Committee Jessica Evans, director of standards on Drinking Water Additives—System Barriers to Freshwater development at NSF International. Components and head of the Materials “As facilitator of the standards that and Treatment Section of Health Funding Water Infrastructure became the foundation of the U.S. Safe Canada’s Water and Air Quality Bureau Drinking Water Act, NSF International Health Canada. WC PLUS: Columns, news and insights, coverage on the industry’s biggest events, people on the move, and more.
AD BOOKING DEADLINE: MATERIAL DEADLINE: DISTRIBUTION DATE: Share your story about the Email Managing Editor NOVEMBER 27 DECEMBER 4 JANUARY 8 Canadian water industry Andrew Macklin at To reach Water Canada’s influential readers with Water Canada! [email protected] in print, contact Nick Krukowski at 416-444-5842 ext.101 or [email protected]
6 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 FRONT
Online at WATERCANADA.NET
NEWS: Grassy Narrows First Nation Ends All Long-Term Drinking Water Advisories. bit.ly/GrassyNarrowsWater Government of Canada Invests in Equipment to Respond to Environmental Spills UNDER THE OCEANS PROTECTION PLAN, 10,000-feet of environmental response the Government of Canada is investing equipment known as Tidal Seal Boom. NEWS: University of Guelph in the Canadian Coast Guard to ensure The contract includes options for an Researchers Testing University it has modern equipment needed to additional 8,200 feet. Residence Wastewater as Early respond to environmental spills quickly “The Tidal Boom will ensure the Detector of COVID Outbreaks and effectively. Coast Guard can continue to respond bit.ly/uofgwastewater This investment will allow the quickly and efficiently in the event of an Canadian Coast Guard to continue environmental emergency,” said Jordan. protecting Canada’s waters, coasts, “These investments will help strengthen and coastal communities from marine the Coast Guard and ensure it remains pollution. a world leader in ocean protection and “Under the Oceans Protection Plan, we marine environmental response.” are providing our dedicated Canadian “We are committed to protecting Coast Guard members across Canada Canada’s waters through the Oceans with the best equipment possible,” said Protection Plan,” added Anita Anand, Bernadette Jordan, minister of fisheries, minister of public services and oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard. procurement. “This contract is an NEWS: New Model Assesses Following an open competitive example of how we are stimulating the Economic Impacts of Climate process, Public Services and Canadian economy while helping the Change on Great Lakes. Procurement Canada, on behalf of the Coast Guard better protect our oceans bit.ly/GreatLakesCC
Canadian Coast Guard, has awarded and coastlines by strengthening its Credit: Martin Cathrae a $1.7-million contract to Can-Ross capacity with modern and effective Environmental Services Ltd. of equipment to safely and effectively Oakville, Ontario for the acquisition of address emergency situations.” WC
Get your daily dose of Canadian water news by visiting watercanada.net or by following us NEWS: Metering Helps Reduce Water on Twitter @CanadianWater Consumption in Charlottetown. bit.ly/CharlottetownMetering
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 7 WASTEWATER All photos: OCWA
Key partnerships with OCWA and other utilities were key to the project in Petawawa, according to Public Works Director David Unrau.
Municipal Co-digestion
How a provincial initiative is helping reduce GHG emissions by diverting organic waste from landfills to WWTPs. BY SIMRAN CHATTHA
IT’S NO SECRET that wastewater treatment are becoming more aware that GHG Water Consortium’s (OWC) Municipal plants consume a significant amount emissions are leading to the greenhouse Co-digestion Initiative comes in. of energy and that they contribute effect, which is what is ultimately leading significantly to the total amount of to global warming. This awareness The Response: Municipal greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions emitted has led a number of towns and cities Co-digestion Initiative in Ontario. in Ontario—like Stratford, Toronto, To promote the reduction of GHG In a 2017 report, the Environmental Kingston, and Hamilton—to declare a emissions and diversion of organics, Commissioner of Ontario notes that climate emergency. among other objectives, OCWA and OWC “municipal water and wastewater There’s an opportunity for launched the Municipal Co-digestion systems account for 32 per cent of municipalities to reduce GHG emissions Initiative in 2016. reported municipal GHG emissions; at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) “The initiative has brought almost half of that comes from energy- by increasing energy efficiency and/ municipalities, industry stakeholders, intensive sewage treatment.” or capturing the energy generated by utilities, and regulators together to shape The Environmental Commissioner wastewater so that it can be reused on policy, programs, and projects,” says of Ontario also notes that this number site. An alternative approach is also Indra Maharjan, director of innovation, doesn’t represent the true amount of available, which is that municipalities technology, and alternate delivery at OCWA. GHG emissions since GHG emissions can reduce GHG emissions by diverting So far, the City of Stratford, Town from wastewater, like methane, are organics from landfills through of Petawawa, and City of Cornwall are typically understated or not reported. co-digestion at WWTPs. engaged in the Municipal Co-digestion Municipalities are starting to realize This is where the Ontario Clean Initiative. Each municipality has had its that status quo can’t continue since they Water Agency’s (OCWA) and Ontario own reasons for joining the initiative.
8 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 WASTEWATER
The City of One of the nreasons why Petawawa became engaged Stratford was in the Municipal Co-digestion Initiative was the funding one of the first that was available through different programs. municipalities to get engaged in the Municipal Co-digestion Initiative.
“Traditionally, municipalities are risk adverse and these types of projects need strong leaders to champion the change,” noted David Unrau, director of public works at the Town of Petawawa.
“Stratford is an innovative which includes planning a sustainable that undertaking a co-digestion municipality and it’s always looking future for Stratford’s resources and project requires a paradigm shift for for ways to innovate and reduce costs,” environment,” says Ed Dujlovic, director municipalties. Instead of thinking about says Maharjan. “This project stemmed of infrastructure and development at WWTPs as a cost centre, municipalities from energy conservation efforts in the City of Stratford. “The co-digestion can start thinking about a WWTP as WWTP starting 2013. We then explored project has been identified as a project something that can be cost neutral or utilization of biogas as means of GHG that will assist in achieving the City’s goal as something that can generate revenue. reduction and identified multiple for this priority.” “Traditionally, municipalities are risk The Town of adverse and these types of projects need Municipalities can support the Petawawa is strong leaders to champion the change,” also one of the says Unrau. “Key partnerships with province’s priorities by using municipalities that OCWA and other utilities bring access has been engaged to strong diverse team and overcome the co-digestion to divert organic waste in the Municipal many challenges presented. The Town of Co-Digestion Petawawa has all these ingredients and is from landfills and reduce emissions. Initiative. “The main excited to present the final business case drivers for the Town to Council for its consideration.” co-benefits of larger project with of Petawawa project are the willingness A third municipality that’s engaged in inclusion of co-digestion.” of council to explore alternative energy the Municipal Co-Digestion Initiative is Stratford’s involvement in the sources, the funding made available the City of Cornwall. In Cornwall’s case, Municipal Co-digestion Initiative is from FCM and LCEF, and finally the municipal co-digestion came up during helping the City make progress on excess digester capacity,” says David discussions about what net zero means its strategic priorities. “One of the Unrau, director of public works at the and how its wastewater treatment plant Strategic Priorities for the City of Town of Petawawa. could contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Stratford is developing our resources, At the same time, Unrau notes Development Goals.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 9 WASTEWATER
“The plant sees that solar energy to create its particular site. However, “the Municipal co-digestion in food and the plant takes the result of that municipality’s experience with approvals the provincial landscape process through food waste and sewage and permissions provides an excellent Over the past few years, the Government of turning it into energy that displaces non- template for the process and requirements Ontario made a number of commitments circular energy and puts the remaining that other municipalities can expect in related to organics management and waste biosolids back into the ground as being undertaking similar projects,” notes the reducing GHG emissions. For example, an inspiring project,” says Carl Goodwin, Co-digestion Handbook. the Food and Organic Waste Framework director of environmental services at the “Since co-digestion is new concept to notes that “keeping food and organic City of Cornwall. “Transforming a WWTP the province, the regulatory process is waste out of landfills can help us fight into a net zero resource recovery facility learning curve for all,” adds Maharjan. climate change by reducing greenhouse through co-digestion can be achieved “Hence, we worked early on with MECP’s gas emissions” and that “keeping food and working with strong partners like OCWA Innovations Units and Approvals Branch organic waste out of the disposal stream is and other utilities.” and were successful in getting ECA a high priority for the province.” Reducing approval for Stratford.” Regulatory requirements GHG emissions is also a key part of the Ontario government’s Made-in-Ontario to consider for municipal Financing municipal plan. Municipalities can support the co-digestion projects co-digestion projects province’s priorities by using co-digestion Before Stratford kicked off its project, it Along with regulatory requirements, to divert organic waste from landfills and had a number of regulatory requirements financing is naturally another important reduce emissions. to consider because it was planning on consideration for municipal co-digestion There are also technological importing outside organic wastes for projects. considerations at the provincial scale. co-digestion at its WWTP. In particular, In the case of Stratford, its project is “The Province of Ontario has academic Stratford needed to follow the Municipal expected to cost $22.5 million. As noted expertise and an emerging ecosystem of Class Environmental Assessment (Class in the Co-digestion Handbook, the project technology companies with strengths in EA) and it needed a comprehensive has a few revenue sources including: technologies to optimize and enhance Environmental Compliance Approval. A $5-million investment through the anaerobic digestor performance to Target GHG Fund. This fund was To move the project forward, Stratford maximize capacity and the production provided by the Ontario government submitted a single comprehensive and recovery of valuable resources,” through the Ontario Centres of Environmental Compliance Approval notes the Co-digestion Handbook. Excellence (OCE); however, it no application that included the following “Technology solutions can be pre- or longer exists. components: post-anaerobic digester and also within A $5-million matching contribution the anaerobic digester itself.” Environmental Compliance Approval for OCE funding to be provided by This is where organizations like OWC (Waste Disposal Site). Stratford, OCWA, and SUEZ Water come in. “Successful commercialization Environmental Compliance Approval Technologies & Solutions. of innovative water technologies Amendment (Air and Noise). An ongoing revenue stream that will requires not only matching solutions to Environmental Compliance Approval be available through an RNG sales problems but often an instigator who Amendment (Industrial Sewage Works). through a contract with Fortis BC. can connect the dots,” notes Rahim Stratford also needed to keep specific Kanji, industry partnership manager Project financing from a public regulations in mind as it was developing at OWC. “Brokers like OWC link financier. its project. These include: opportunities, stakeholders, and drivers In the case of Petawawa, it’s “proceeding Regulation 347 (Waste Management, and we play a key role in the water with the 30 per cent design engineering Reg. 347) since this is the regulation that technology innovation ecosystem to for a proposed co-digestion project with “imported organic wastes are regulated accelerate technology commercialization OCWA. Existing anaerobic digestors under,” according to the Co-digestion in Ontario.” will be upgraded with Anaergia’s sludge Handbook that came out of the Going forward, municipal co-digestion screw thickeners and high solids SMART Getting to Net Zero Energy Wastewater is an approach that can help mixers. Captured biogas will be used to Treatment workshop co-hosted by municipalities and the province achieve generate electricity.” OCWA and OWC in February 2020. multiple goals and objectives. WC At this time, the project is expected Regulation 419 (Air Pollution— to cost $7 million. So far, a $2.7-million Local Air Quality) since waste grant has been approved for capital processing equipment can create air installation through the Government of and noise pollution, according to the Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Fund Simran Chattha is the associate editor Co-digestion Handbook. (LCEF). According to the Co-digestion of Water Canada. All the environmental approvals Handbook, “additional project financing that Stratford received were for is currently being explored.”
10 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
STORMWATER All photos: C.F. Crozier & Associates Inc.
Dr. Clare Robinson (Western University).
Wilfred Laurier students out in the field conducting Wilfred Laurier student (left) and Dr. Kevin Stevens from Wilfrid research on stormwater management. Laurier University (right) collect samples from a nearby wetland.
The Future of Stormwater Management What will updated guidelines need to consider for the future of stormwater management? BY NICK MOCAN
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT IN ONTARIO However, despite the efforts of some local known as low-impact development—or has come a long way since the flood agencies who have adopted their own LID—have been gaining a foothold. LID control efforts of the early 1970s. At updated SWM guidelines, there have practices, which include rain gardens that time, communities were concerned been no official updates to the Provincial and bioretention systems, manage with preventing loss of life and property guidelines for nearly 20 years. stormwater by mimicking the natural because of the type of devastation left With changing weather and climate processes under pre-development behind by Hurricane Hazel. It flooded conditions, development pressures, and conditions that infiltrate and treat runoff. the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in new and innovative approaches, what In Ontario, initiatives like the 1954, claimed 81 lives, and caused will these updated guidelines need to Sustainable Technologies Evaluation unprecedented damage to properties and consider for the future of stormwater Program (STEP) are leading the charge to infrastructure. management? incorporate LID practices across the land In 1991, the Government of Ontario development industry. This partnership released additional guidelines regarding Greening stormwater between several Ontario conservation water quality treatment of stormwater. infrastructure authorities works with partners to assess These guidelines further evolved in 1994 Traditionally, stormwater was managed and research new SWM techniques. and 2003 to promote a treatment-train using grey infrastructure approaches In the future, engineers should expect approach, incorporating small-scale, low like stormwater management ponds, dry to use tools like STEP’s Low Impact impact development (LID) techniques detention basins, and oil-grit separators. Development Life Cycle Costing Tool for stormwater management (SWM). However, innovative approaches to SWM more often to evaluate the feasibility of
12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 STORMWATER incorporating green infrastructure into design may reveal targeted vegetation under varying development conditions. their designs. plantings that better manage erosion, For engineering firms without dedicated In the next 20 years, it may not be a reduce suspended solids, and selectively research facilities and staff, partnering question of whether a development has uptake problematic pollutants like with schools and other organizations green infrastructure at all, and instead chlorides. The future of SWM pond can help offset the costs of engaging in what types of green infrastructure it designs rely on these field studies now research. These partnerships can also incorporates. However, traditional to identify opportunities for future cultivate important research skills for stormwater management solutions infrastructure. For green infrastructure in-house staff through opportunities for will certainly not disappear. Grey like bioretention systems, experts experiential learning and involvement SWM infrastructure will still serve an in biology and geochemistry might in field and lab activities. Executing important role in capturing and detaining be involved from day one working successful research programs will large volumes of runoff, particularly on how to bind, trap, or uptake require more than just engineers—they in the dense urban landscapes that nutrients using optimized soil and will need experienced technical staff who characterize many parts of the GTA. vegetation characteristics. are comfortable in the field, lab, and on The next generation of guidelines will An increase in green infrastructure will stage presenting at conferences. likely expand further on how to integrate also drive the need for engineering firms We can also expect climate change to conventional and LID approaches for to attract and train team members that be a major driver of innovation in SWM. stormwater management to provide are scientifically literate and capable of Future-proofing SWM designs and social, environmental, and economic designing, operating, and maintaining retrofits for future climate conditions will benefits to communities. these solutions. This may include hiring be critical. While it is uncertain about staff that come from non-traditional how these changes will affect rainfall A holistic approach engineering backgrounds, or in some timing and intensity, engaging in research It’s no secret that the best solutions cases, have no engineering background and development now can identify ways for any problem result from a multi- whatsoever. Developing the skillset to cope with projected scenarios. For disciplinary approach. Stormwater needed as a civil engineer in the future example, enhanced water quality treatment management problems are no different. may involve taking additional courses through targeted vegetation plantings may Engineers have traditionally applied or gaining certifications that round out be required to handle increased volumes basic hydrologic and hydraulic principles traditional engineering expertise with of runoff into SWM ponds during the to solve SWM challenges. However, the proficiencies in ecology, soil chemistry, winter. Changing rainfall patterns may key to optimizing these systems lies in a or geomorphology. also affect the storm events that grey strong understanding of hydrologic and and green infrastructure are designed to hydraulic interactions and relationships Fast-tracking innovation control. This, in turn, will drive the need with local ecology, geomorphology, and Implementing any type of stormwater for innovative ways to develop resiliency hydrogeology. We can expect future management infrastructure comes at a in new and retrofitted systems. innovations in SWM to be advanced cost. That’s why fast-tracking research The stormwater management by drawing on the expertise of multi- towards innovative approaches will solutions of the future will be disciplinary teams of practitioners be critical to lower the traditionally holistic systems that integrate both and researchers. high up-front cost of LID techniques. grey and green infrastructure to Currently in Ontario, protect communities and the natural financial incentives environment. These systems will What will these updated guidelines for developers to be designed by engineers who go incorporate green beyond traditional design techniques need to consider for the future of SWM infrastructure to create solutions that consider are few and their sustainability, cost, and long- stormwater management? far between. term resiliency in a changing world. Across the Through research and development, as province, colleges well as collaborating with and learning For example, engineers might leverage and universities have been developing from other fields, engineers will be the expertise from disciplines such and refining innovations in SWM able to leverage what they’ve learned as geochemistry and hydrogeology to technologies. Engineering firms are in a over the past 20 years to shape the identify techniques to optimize SWM unique position to bring these innovations direction of stormwater management pond designs. They may also pursue into practice as key players in both design for the next 20. WC further collaboration with landscape and communication with developers architects and ecologists to design and about their needs. For instance, firms enhance the natural features of grey can incorporate research and monitoring and green stormwater infrastructure. for LID practices at their project sites to Nick Mocan is the president of Crozier Unveiling a typical future SWM pond learn about how these systems perform Consulting Engineers.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 13 DRINKING WATER
All levels of government play an important role in ensuring that communities have access to clean, safe drinking water.
Shared Responsibility
What’s happening at the federal and municipal levels to ensure communities receive safe drinking water? BY SIMRAN CHATTHA
DRINKING WATER is a shared and CWWA were joined by a number of 3 Undertaking a peer review by internal responsibility. industry leaders, including: and external experts. That was one of the main messages Steve Craik from EPCOR. 4 Obtaining reviews and endorsements that came out of the Window on Renée Grosselle from from provincial and territorial Drinking webinar, which was hosted by the City of Winnipeg. partners as well as other government Water Canada and the Canadian Water Judy Macdonald from departments. and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Health Canada. on August 20, 2020. 5 Publishing the draft guidelines and Diane Medeiros from Health Canada. The webinar included an update from undertaking public consultations. Hélène Ralay from Health Canada on its Water Quality 6 Leading a second review by provincial the City of Montreal. Program. Health Canada also presented and territorial partners as well as Anne Vezina from Health Canada. on its guidance for Monitoring the other government departments. Biological Stability of Drinking Water Health Canada’s This step also includes impact in Distribution Systems. Water Quality Program considerations and endorsement. In addition to the federal Anne Vezina kicked off the Window on 7 Obtaining internal approval from activities relating to drinking water, Drinking Water webinar with updates on within Health Canada. Water Canada and CWWA hosted Health Canada’s Guideline development 8 presentations that looked at water Publishing the final guidelines. process. According to Vezina, the quality in buildings. The presentations “The timeline between the priority steps in the guideline development focused on questions such as: Where process include: setting and publication of the final does municipal responsibility end? guidelines depends on the complexity 1 Where does the property owner become Setting the priorities, which of the file,” noted Vezina. “A simple responsible? What does the law say includes scoping the assessment, guideline can take two years to develop communication, and endorsement. versus a moral or practical obligation? and a complicated guideline can take up During the webinar, Water Canada 2 Conducting a risk assessment. to four years to develop.”
14 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
DRINKING WATER
1 Presence of microorganisms in According to biofilm, corrosion by-products, silt, Steve Craik, there are a number and sediment. of reasons 2 why utilities Type and availability of nutrients might want (e.g. organic carbon, ammonia, to go beyond phosphate, etc.). their current responsibilities. 3 Pipe material and condition. For example, “there are clear 4 Type and concentration of regulatory disinfectant residual. drivers” for addressing Lead 5 General distribution system conditions in drinking water. (e.g. water temperature, pH, etc.).
Sharing the responsibility of drinking water quality Sharing the responsibility of drinking water quality was a topic that was discussed by a number of presenters during the Window on Drinking Water webinar. One of the presenters that spoke about this was Steve Craik from EPCOR. During his presentation, Craik raised the question about who is responsible for water quality at the tap. He noted that the traditional utility view has been that utilities “provide water up to the service connection and [are] responsible up to Vezina also spoke about how COVID-19 about distribution systems and the that point.” He also noted that “utility is affecting the program. She noted that quality of water that goes through funding models and rate regulation do not the work of the program continued as these systems. readily allow utilities to invest in assets employees shifted to working from home. “In some senses, the distribution that are not utility owned.” “However, face-to-face meetings have system can be thought of as a reactor,” The environmental and public health been replaced by conference calls of said MacDonald. “It’s this complex and regulators view aligns with the traditional much shorter duration, reducing our dynamic environment. There are a utility view, according to Craik. “The point capacity to get documents reviewed number of interactions among a number of compliance is usually set at the water by the Federal-Provincial-Territorial of players like microbes, nutrients, and treatment plant or in the distribution Committee on Drinking Water,” noted particles. We also know that there are system,” he said. Vezina. “Also, the publication of biofilm deposits present. When all of At the same time, there are a number drinking water guidelines and guidance these things come together, what we of reasons why utilities might want to documents was delayed to give priority to have is the possibility for significant go beyond their current responsibilities. COVID-related publications. In addition deterioration of water quality.” According to Craik, these include: to this, some staff got re-assigned to “If this water is consumed, it would regulations, ethical reasons, practical support the COVID crisis, which created pose both direct and indirect risks to the reasons, and customer care. some delays for specific files.” consumer that result in gastrointestinal “Lead is the great example [since] illnesses and exposure to metals,” added that’s one where there are clear Monitoring the biological MacDonald. “The goal of monitoring regulatory drivers,” said Craik. “Sampling stability of drinking water drinking water quality in the distribution procedures move the point of compliance in distribution systems system is to minimize these changes to the tap and measure the impact of the During the webinar, Judy MacDonald and in water quality from the treatment to service line and premise plumbing. […] If Diane Medeiros also provided updates the consumer. This concept is called lead concentrations are high, the utility from Health Canada. In particular, ensuring biological stability.” may need to implement corrosion control they focused on monitoring the Diane Medeiros from Health and/or replace lead service lines.” WC biological stability of drinking water in Canada noted that Health Canada has distribution systems. a document out for consultation that MacDonald noted that there are many looks at five causes of water quality Simran Chattha is the associate editor reasons for why it’s important to care deterioration: of Water Canada.
16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 INFRASTRUCTURE All photos: TRCA An example of natural infrastructure installed to reduce urban flooding on commercial land.
Left: This map highlights the pervious surface areas within the Pearson Eco- Business Zone.
Natural infrastructure placed in a parking lot to assist with bioretention and reduce stormwater impacts. Building the Case Creating a business case for natural infrastructure. BY ALYSSA KELLY AND ERIC MELITON
FLOODING IS A CRITICAL ISSUE facing with a seasonal bombardment of news in low-lying areas prone to flooding, Canadian municipalities that will only headlines warning of rising flood costs simply due to the nature of how water become more challenging as we continue and impending infrastructure damages, flows. However, three important factors to experience the effects of climate this seems impossible to ignore. And are the main drivers of increased change. A 2019 Council of Canadian rightly so—the Greater Toronto Area has flooding in urban centres like Toronto: Academies report quotes damage to seen a significant increase in flooding more precipitation as a consequence of physical infrastructure caused by over the past ten years, coinciding with climate change, aging and insufficient extreme weather as Canada’s top risk rising average temperatures. In 2019, the infrastructure capacity and the and in 2019, for the first time in history, Insurance Bureau of Canada reported abundance of concrete, asphalt, and the Bank of Canada listed climate that insured losses from severe weather in other hard surfaces. These impermeable change as one of six vulnerabilities to Ontario reached $1.3 billion in 2018, after areas prevent water from seeping into the Canada’s financial system. Considering exponential increases since the early 1980s, ground as it naturally should, forcing it to that extreme weather, including floods, when average insured losses were only $400 flow overland into storm sewers, many of is Canada’s primary climate change risk, million per year for all of Canada. which are old and have limited capacity. stormwater and flood management is There are many reasons why urban To reduce these effects, introducing an important strategy for enhancing our areas across Canada are seeing more permeable features like plants and soil to climate resiliency. flooding. Older neighbourhoods were soak up water would help protect cities Urban centres like Toronto are constructed in floodplains and some from floods—like taking a step towards particularly vulnerable to flooding, and regional topography shows development re-establishing the power of the forest or
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 17 INFRASTRUCTURE wetland that once stood where our cities Heavy metals, bacteria, chloride importance of private sector involvement do now. This is natural infrastructure; from road salt, oil, and grease are in natural infrastructure propagation; the use of vegetated systems to manage commonly found in rivers and lakes however, this has generally been difficult stormwater and restore some of the near urbanized areas from sources to achieve. A lack of understanding in the hydrological functions of natural areas. such as tire wear, industrial spills, or business sector as to the causes of urban pavement deterioration. flooding, and minimal awareness of Why businesses should The impacts of combined sewer natural infrastructure as a solution, have, care about flooding overflows (CSOs). up until now, been limiting factors on the The need to consider the effects of When intense rainfall overloads the predominance of natural infrastructure climate change, including flooding, also capacity of combined sewers, this on corporate lands. extends to businesses. Physical damage to mix of raw sewage and contaminated The private sector is, therefore, a assets and local infrastructure, employee stormwater is diverted past treatment key stakeholder in addressing the issue physical and mental wellbeing, supply facilities, directly into surrounding of flooding and climate vulnerability chain risks, threats to water quality, rivers and lakes. in urban areas, and despite its lack of and the implementation of stormwater prevalence, there are a host of benefits charges can all result in unexpected Natural infrastructure businesses can reap from on-site costs or disruptions to business as a solution implementation of natural infrastructure. operations, both on a local and global Natural infrastructure is a valuable Not only can natural infrastructure scale. Flooding and climate change method of reducing stormwater runoff lower flood risk and improve water have trickle-down consequences, from a and lowering flood risk. It’s a strategy runoff quality, it has been shown to systemic, global level to the scale of the that incorporates natural land features provide building energy savings, increase individual employee. in development and reintroduces these property values, and can be used to gain Here are the potential risks to features into urban areas to allow water municipal stormwater charge credits. businesses as a result of climate change: to infiltrate into the ground rather From another perspective, this also Risk of physical damage than run into storm sewers. Natural presents the private sector with the Physical damage to a company’s assets infrastructure can range from conserving opportunity to take a leadership role in (office buildings, warehouses, fleets, features like wetlands to implementing creating resiliency in their communities inventory, etc.). permeable pavements to allow water to and demonstrate corporate social Damage to public infrastructure soak into the ground. responsibility to consumers, employees, (flooded roads, impaired bridges) The types of natural infrastructure and investors. In fact, climate resiliency disrupting transportation, goods vary from naturally movement and accessibility. occurring landscapes The Insurance Bureau of Canada Employee wellbeing to more engineered technology, which Employee productivity decreases as reported that insured losses from can include: a result of mental health concerns wetlands; urban around residential flooding. A 2013 severe weather in Ontario reached forests; grasslands; study by the Conference Board of gardens and native $1.3 billion in 2018 Canada found that absenteeism cost landscaping (rain the Canadian economy $16.6 billion in 2012. gardens, urban agriculture containing is becoming an increasingly important Nineteen per cent of the national native species); mangrove forest metric of environmental, social, and population live in an area that is at restoration (coastal regions); green governance (ESG) criteria used by risk of flooding. roofs; blue roofs; bioswales; bioretention investors to evaluate businesses. areas; soakaways; riparian buffers; Stormwater charges permeable pavements; and rainwater The path toward natural Financial costs from government harvesting vessels. infrastructure adoption implementing stormwater fees. Partners in Project Green (PPG), Risks to the supply chain. The opportunity a program of Toronto and Region Raw material availability, quality, The public sector has been active Conservation Authority, is in the unique and changes in cost, as well as in promoting natural infrastructure position of convening municipalities, the labour issues and shipping/delivery on public lands, but even so, a large not-for-profit sector, and the business disruptions. percentage of the land in a given community to identify and implement Threats to water quality municipality is privately owned. The sustainability solutions. Contamination implications from prevalence of private land, particularly PPG’s Water Stewardship performance urban flooding can affect process industrial and commercially owned, area seeks to promote best practices water sources used in manufacturing. has led experts in the field to stress the in stormwater management and
18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 INFRASTRUCTURE SHOVEL-READY flood resiliency, and has supported multiple successful implementations of natural infrastructure projects on corporate properties, mitigating the permeable surfaces in the Pearson Eco-Business Zone. Working as a liaison between the conservation community and the private sector presents a unique opportunity to provide information for businesses on flooding issues in the DESIGN CONSTRUCT GTA, on the multiple benefits of natural infrastructure, and to support the CIPP PROVIDES A business case for companies to act. This will improve climate change resiliency SAFE AND EFFICIENT SOLUTION not only for the participating company WITHIN A YEAR but the surrounding community as well. The recent publication of PPG’s white paper entitled: The Business Case for Natural Infrastructure: How corporations can invest in nature for climate resilience seeks to Watch our videos and learn more utilize this strategic position to assist about us and our projects at businesses achieve both economic and environmental resiliency. ferpalinfrastructure.com A well-functioning environment works as a system, with trees, soil, rivers, valleys, and peaks, each playing a role in the water cycle. A well- functioning urban water cycle must also have multiple collaborators, each playing their part. In order to address the issue of flooding in the GTA, the private sector must play a role in, and The essential source for benefit from, the solution. Natural infrastructure is a simple way of Canadian environmental growing businesses into attractive, marketable, and environmentally and news, events, and resources. socially responsible organizations, resilient to the effects of climate change and prepared for the future. WC This article originally appeared in the July/August issue of ReNew Canada.
Alyssa Kelly is the primary author of For more details or advertising information, contact The Business Case for Natural Infrastructure: How corporations can [email protected] or [email protected] invest in nature for climate resilience. Eric Meliton is a program manager of EnvironmentJournal.ca Partners in Project Green, a program of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 19 INFRASTRUCTURE
Digging out a major intersection for both the subway tunnel and the subway station takes significant consideration for utilities, including water, that service the surrounding neighbourhood.
Tracking Water Assets
Toronto Water protects its water infrastructure during massive construction project. BY BRIAN BELL
TO MEET THEIR MANDATES, water 1,400 km of combined sewers. communicated internally and externally utilities must not only know where their Metrolinx is a Crown agency that to provide service continuity and assets are and how they relate to each manages and integrates road and prevent damages to in-service assets. It other, but also how they relate to the public transport in the cities of Toronto is essential that these asset changes are infrastructure and operations of other and Hamilton and their suburbs and is systematically catalogued and tracked, departments and agencies, such as currently building the Eglinton Crosstown, and the traditional mark-up process or transportation and transit. an LRT corridor across Toronto. documentation in paper logbooks wasn’t Nowhere is this more important than It will cost $5.3-billion construction cost, nearly sufficient for a project of this scale. in a large public construction initiative have 25 stops, run 19 km, and has a Significant projects and operations like the building of the Eglinton light rail completion deadline of 2022. require accurate, detailed knowledge of transit (LRT) in Toronto. This is where Not wanting to jeopardize its asset locations and relationships. In short, the biggest water system in the country strategic emphasis on customer service organizations need location intelligence. meets the largest transit infrastructure and commitment to excellent water They need geographic information build in the country. That’s a lot of delivery and reliability, Toronto Water system (GIS) technology. Moreover, to moving parts. had to figure out how to manage its realize a more complete and accurate Toronto Water, a division of the City assets with this extensive construction view of its infrastructure and improve of Toronto, is one of the largest water, project that intersects with existing operational awareness, Toronto Water wastewater, and stormwater utilities in water infrastructure across the city. To saw the advantages of collaborating North America, (with approximately 6,000 accomplish this, Toronto Water had to internally, so that all stakeholders, from kilometres (km) of watermains) servicing develop a streamlined way to collaborate planning to operations to the field crews more than three million residents and internally but also with outside partners on the ground, could both access and businesses. It maintains and services like Metrolinx, as its construction requires contribute to the organization’s GIS. assets worth approximately $28 billion, Toronto Water to move a large number of This was a cultural shift. including: four water and four wastewater assets temporarily or permanently. Toronto Water has been using Esri treatment plants, 4,100 km of sanitary When any infrastructure is being moved, solutions for 10 years. Historically, the sewers, 5,000 km of storm sewers, and the new locations must be recorded and Infrastructure Management group was
20 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 21 A look at the digital by the LRT by the LRT of the water construction. Ave. impacted Ave. along Eglinton representation the intersections appears at one of infrastructure that INFRASTRUCTURE Brian Bell is the director for utilities at Esri Canada. WC NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Toronto Water has seen that effective effective seen that has Water Toronto to Toronto Water’s GIS and are directly GIS Water’s to Toronto involved in this feedback process. In contrast to when operations had to rely on Planning for its GIS capabilities, crews now help improve the completeness of data with daily location Water’s Toronto updates to assets. If a main break occurs after hours along the construction route, emergency crews do not need to rely They data. inaccurate possibly on old, GIS and Water’s can access Toronto its Metrolinx layer to accurately assess the situation and resolve the problem assets have even if those efficiently, been temporarily adjusted due to the construction. information location its of management collaborate to ability its improved has internally and coordinate with outside its meet so, doing in and, partners strategic goal of providing excellent water delivery and reliability to customers, despite an ongoing huge construction site nearby. to minimize customer customer minimize to they Further, impact. routinely conduct test of advance shuts in validate to construction which customers will be impacted and notify such customers appropriately. “The Geometric Network has given given has Network Geometric “The contribute to are now able crews Field The distribution and collection group assets redline can staff means This the operations department the ability the operations department the ability to define relationships between assets with assets interact and how different each other as well as perform critical functions like upstream tracing, valve isolation and customer notification,” planning notes Arash Farajian, policy, Water. and project consultant at Toronto and operations more complete awareness the as infrastructure and assets their of develops. Eglinton Crosstown LRT worked with both Metrolinx and Toronto to digitize and track field staff Water changes as to where assets are and how on by construction, they will be affected dedicated map layers, which are then easily shared with all stakeholders. and by construction that will be affected plan their operations in such a way as Significant projects and operations Significant projects and operations To improve operational awareness, awareness, operational improve To of asset locations and relationships. of asset locations and relationships. require accurate, detailed knowledge require accurate, detailed knowledge efficiency and collaboration, Toronto and collaboration, Toronto efficiency practice beyond expanded its GIS Water planning to the operations group, which has been instrumental in coordinating now using Operations is Metrolinx. with a connected network and mobile apps so field crews can contribute in near real-time data and as a result, give both planning more up-to-date information responsible for its GIS. However, the the responsible for its GIS. However, a lens through which they view GIS gave planning perspective rather than a more holistic one that included operations and to had construction. As such, operations for planning infrastructure on depend intelligence. Conversely, their location the planning group did not have access to the most up-to-date construction than less in resulting information, optimal operational awareness as well as lag times required to digitize Records of Alterations (ROAs) and as-built drawings.
Credit: Esri WATER RESOURCES Photo and inset: POLIS Pathways to Partnerships
New community partnerships have led to community- focused governance of the Cowichan Watershed.
Taking steps towards reconciliation and watershed governance.
BY ROSIE SIMMS AND OLIVER BRANDES
IN THE COWICHAN AND KOKSILAH sometimes conflicting, priorities, have identified tangible milestones for watersheds on eastern Vancouver Island, perspectives, needs, and opinions—work watershed partners to strengthen their a quiet transformation is unfolding. together to share responsibility and keep role in decision-making to improve Outside of the limelight and driven water and surrounding lands healthy and outcomes on the land and in the water. by community champions, over the resilient? It is about shifting away from past decade the Cowichan Watershed a centralized, top-down approach to new The Stepping Stones Board (CWB) has taken exceptional forms of decision-making for water and Framework steps to change how water is managed land that: The Stepping Stones Framework outlines and governed. With perseverance, Adapt to local priorities and context. seven steps towards building influence patience, and partnerships, the CWB Respect and draw on Indigenous laws, and momentum towards watershed is strengthening local capacity and authority, and knowledge. governance. Meeting people where they influence, and building a foundational Embrace a “whole-of-watershed” are in their process, the Framework partnership with the Cowichan approach, which means integration includes self-assessment questions for Valley Regional District (CVRD) and between different authorities to move watershed groups and initiatives to Cowichan Tribes that actively expresses beyond silos and link land and water. identify their level of readiness, what “reconciliation in action.” their strengths are, and how they can Are informed and driven by local The Cowichan example is just one of move forward—whether they represent capacity and expertise. many bright lights in British Columbia a local government, Indigenous nation, Give those affected by decisions a say and beyond where watershed governance community group, or watershed entity. by building local “power.” has shifted from aspiration to present- At a glance, the seven steps are: day reality, thanks to leadership from Systemic change of this nature is 1 Champions and Commitment. Indigenous nations, local governments, daunting, emergent, and often messy. This first step involves building support community groups, and local champions No blueprint exists for exactly how to within your organization or government to drive change. achieve governance transformation. Yet, for action on water and preparing for Watershed governance squarely through several years of research and more intensive work down the road. confronts the pressing question: How direct work with communities, Crown can those who live and work in a governments at all levels, Indigenous 2 Projects and Pooling Knowledge. watershed—with their different, and nations, and watershed entities—we This step entails getting out into the
22 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
WATER RESOURCES watershed via boots-on-the ground planning and more advanced shared and the CVRD are developing strong projects that enhance ecosystem health decision-making phases. And any stone is partnerships and demonstrating a deep and knowledge and foster positive early a good place to be. For some groups like commitment to moving down the path of partnerships and relationships with small community organizations, doing reconciliation—together. other governments and groups as a basis effective “gumboots-on-the-ground” Although it does not have formal for longer-term collaboration. projects can be the most appropriate (or regulatory) authority, the CWB is niche to fill to contribute to overall established as a trusted, legitimate leader 3 Shared Visioning and Setting watershed health and resilience. No one- on watershed issues, with several spheres Priorities. This step involves co-creating size-fits-all approach exists. The process of influence. Through an array of major a shared vision for the watershed and looks different in different watersheds watershed monitoring/restoration projects, honing in on solutions needed to protect and must be adapted to local contexts, the Board builds deep understanding of and wisely share water resources. priorities, histories and cultures. watershed health and dynamics. It generates 4 Use Local Resources and Authorities. linkages between different agencies often This phase involves Indigenous Stepping Stones in action operating in isolation, and provides a governments, local governments, and in the Cowichan key bridge between interests in complex non-profit organizations using their Returning to Vancouver Island’s Cowichan water challenges (including for example, existing authority, mandates, and watershed, how have the stepping stones water management at the Cowichan Lake resources to support implementation of been implemented or explored? weir). Through partnerships, the Board watershed goals and priorities. Crisis brings opportunity, and the catalyst generates significant funding for watershed 5 Formalize an Advising Role and for action in the Cowichan was the turn- governance and exerts influence on citizens, Exert Influence. At this step, with of-the-century drought. The situation was communities, and decisions like zoning and demonstrated expertise, a track-record ugly: Salmon had to be driven upstream in local government priorities in the region. of substantive achievements, applied trucks because flows dropped so low. Fears Today, guided by an interim letter of local science and information, and ran high that the pulpmill would have to agreement signed in February 2020, proven credibility, collaborative groups shut down (a major employer in the area) Cowichan Tribes and the British Columbia can seek to formalize their role in and that the Indigenous food fishery would Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource advising decision-making and shaping be lost. From acrimony and tension, local Operations and Rural Development are the outcomes of policy and regulatory champions realized a new path forward, working together to jointly scope the development by formal authorities such especially in light of fact that issues benefits of a Water Sustainability Plan as Crown governments. were not going to get any easier with a (under the provincial Water Sustainability climate in chaos. Act) for the Koksilah Watershed. This bears 6 Collaborative Watershed Planning. The first step after this crisis was watching as a space for further government- This step involves taking a holistic, to develop a Cowichan Basin Water to-government planning innovation where watershed-wide planning approach for Management Plan. This is not a legally a Water Sustainability Plan is envisioned as dealing with interrelated land and water binding plan, but sets out a shared vision, a longer-term goal to address local drought pressures, and addressing cumulative goals, objectives, and actions. Although and land-water stresses. impacts. It entails identifying which legal watershed planning is generally seen The Cowichan story illustrates perfectly and non-legal tools, across all levels of a later stage activity, in the Cowichan, that while there are clear milestones, the government, are needed to achieve goals planning provided the kickstart to build process of watershed governance is not and tangible improvements in ecological relationships and identify further projects linear. And, like all relationships, governance health, and community and economic and partnerships in the watershed. evolves, changes, and matures over time. WC resilience. Planning can be labour- and In the case of the Cowichan, a key process-intensive. early insight was that making plans 7 Shared Authorities. This step stick you need attention to governance. Rosie Simms is a researcher and ventures into often new territory by going Too many plans sit on the shelf because project manager at the POLIS Water beyond just an advisory role. At this stage, we fail to figure out who will oversee Sustainability Project. decisions are made by watershed entities implementation. The Cowichan Oliver M. Brandes is the associate director that are formally mandated, local, and at the University of Victoria’s Centre for Watershed Board (CWB) was formed Global Studies and co-director of the co-governed. Decisions are grounded in 2010 (under the wise leadership POLIS Project on Ecological Governance. in Indigenous or Crown laws, or both. of real local champions) to provide Innovation is the name of the game here! direction for sustainable watershed management and to implement the Plan. Of course, things are never as neat To learn more about the as seven simple steps, and the stepping From the outset, Cowichan Tribes and Cowichan Watershed Board, visit stones are not linear. They can be pursued the Cowichan Valley Regional District poliswaterproject.org/polis-research- in tandem, repeated, or sustained. (CVRD) have co-chaired the Board, publication/pathways-partnerships Projects like monitoring, for instance, each exerting their respective authority. are generally ongoing throughout the Through this model, Cowichan Tribes
24 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 POLICY Inset credit: oceana.ca
According to research by Oceana Canada, approximately one garbage truck load of plastic is dumped into our oceans every minute, which has created a global environmental disaster.
Inset: To download a copy of the Oceans Canada report, Drowning in Plastic, visit oceana.ca.
Drowning in Plastic Calling for action on one of the world’s greatest environmental disasters.
BY ANDREW MACKLIN
IN SEPTEMBER, Oceana Canada released plastics. The proposal from the federal needed to work on and the time seemed a damning report that emphasized the government calls for these items to be to be now. This is the best time to get disproportionate amount of single-use banned by the end of 2021. this done. plastics consumed versus that of other We sat down with Kim Elmslie, countries. The figures were startling, and campaign director at Oceana Canada, to Some of the statistics you included in yet somehow not at all surprising, showing discuss the key drivers of the new report your report, when it comes to Canadian that Canadians use up to nine times more and the actions being called for. consumption, were pretty alarming. disposed plastics than India, and double Yes, especially when you look at the that of many Scandinavian countries. The With all of the water issues projected growth of plastics. By 2050, disastrous results of this consumption can impacting Canadian oceans, we’re expecting to use four times the be found throughout our cities, in our why focus on plastics? amount of plastics that we are using landfills, and along our shorelines. We started to see growing reports, as right now. Currently the estimates are 22 At the same time as the report was everyone has, about the impact that million kilograms of plastics are leaking released calling for, among other things, plastics were having on the ocean into the ocean every day. So that’s like a a ban on single-use plastics across environment, additionally with being garbage truck full of plastic being poured the country, the federal government found in fish, found in marine mammals, into our oceans every minute, again and announced such a ban, with the plan to in the stomachs of sea turtles. […] We’re again and again. Now is the time, right get rid of plastic checkout bags, straws, at a point right now where, everywhere now, that we have to act and change the stir sticks, six-pack rings, cutlery, and we look, we’re finding plastic. trajectory of that, and change the future food ware made from hard-to-recycle We knew that this was an issue that we of that for the sake of our water.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 25 POLICY
I think sometimes, when we think plastics as well as industrial, commercial, coasts, we need to recognize that this about plastics specifically in oceans, it and institutional, every year we throw is a problem of our own design? away about 125 kilograms per person. can be seen as an ‘over there’ problem, Yes. Some of that plastic that is showing But then where does it go? Only nine per one that plagues the coastlines on up on our shorelines can move, in the other continents. Can you provide cent of plastics ever produced have been same way that we’ve shipped our plastic some perspective on how severe the recycled. Between 1988 and 2016, four overseas it’s now ending up in the ocean. issue is on the Canadian coasts? million tons of our plastics we produced We’ve seen the five gyres in the ocean, we shipped over to other countries. And We had heard that too. We would see a lot of these countries don’t have the the big plastic garbage packages, those that messaging coming up on our social facilities to deal with that amount of are everyone’s plastics that are there. media that this really isn’t a Canada issue; It is all of our problem, globally. It this happens in five riversheds in Asia plastic. China has now stopped taking is a shared ocean. So we need to have and Africa. It’s an ‘over there’ problem. plastics. So, a lot of these plastics leached that federal leadership here in Canada What we wanted to do with the study back into the oceans. And now we’re that says that we’re going to stop this is to look at: what’s our contribution seeing these plastics re-emerge from the unabated use of single-use plastic. to this problem? We were able to look oceans in the sea breeze, they’re being Nobody is looking to go to the grocery through a lot of the research that’s rained down in the desserts, and they’re store to buy everything encased in plastic. already been done on how Canadians are showing up in fish. It’s usually the only choice that we have. using plastics. Canada is less than 0.5 per We’re finding these microplastics in cent of the global population, but we use everything. It’s in our beer, our honey, in This isn’t something that, as 1.4 per cent of all plastics produced. Per us. We’ve contributed to that, and now individuals, we’ve created. person, we are using a lot more plastics we need to contribute to the solution. than other people. We’re also throwing Based on the research you more plastic waste away. So what you are suggesting is that have done, what are the Our consumption is growing. If you now, when we look at the plastics calls-to-action that you are asking look at all plastics, that’s household issues that are appearing on our for in order to curb the problem?
SAVE THE DATE
awards 2021 Celebrating Canadian water leaders and champions Water’s Next winners receive a plaque and an individually hand crafted Delta Ottawa Centre • June 10 glass pin by artisan glassblower Aaron Calenda AWARDS GALA AND DINNER of Guelph, Ont.
PRESENTED BY THANK YOU TO OUR 2020 SPONSORS
For 2021 sponsorship opportunities, contact Nick Krakowski P: 416-444-5842 ext. 0101 E: [email protected]
NOMINATE @WatersNext watersnext.com SOMEONE FOR 2021!
26 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 POLICY
The first thing that we want to see is This is the refillables that are out there. up so that we’re not taking our waste and strong federal legislation. This is a The Beer Store (in Ontario) is a great making it someone else’s problem. ban on the unnecessary use of single- example of a refillable program that is use plastics. And the government has working. You get your beer bottles, you What can the Canadian water industry made this commitment and recently get your bottle deposit, you take them do to support the action items you re-affirmed the commitment in the back, The Beer Store operates as an have outlined in your report? speech from the Throne. But we know ad hoc recycling depot. The glass and In the short-term, it would be to show how laws can be. They can be strong or aluminum containers are reused and support for the federal ban on single use they can be weak. For this ban, we want a refilled multiple times, much more than plastics. At oceana.ca we have a petition strong ban. Something that is at least on a plastic bottle which is only going to be calling on the government to honour par with what we have seen in Europe. down-cycled. Even during COVID-19 we their commitment. And anything we can Secondly, we talk about the reduction saw that. The Beer Store stopped taking look to, with innovation, that moves us of plastics. This can happen through […] returns, so the bottlers started running away from the use of plastics. WC the plastic-free option. Right now, mostly out of bottles. Fortunately, they were able our option is only going to be a plastic to fill that gap and we didn’t run out of option. So we need some sort of plastic- beer. But it showed that circular system Andrew Macklin is the managing editor free option. Imagine what it would look that we are not just pumping out endless of Water Canada. like if you went into the grocery store and bottles for people to deal with. Here is a every isle had either a plastic or a plastic- system where the product is used as it’s free option. I think a lot of people would supposed to and it continues in that circle. The Oceana Canada report, take the plastic-free option. And this is a And then finally, we need to stop the Drowning in Plastic: Ending Canada’s great place where corporations can lead export of plastic. The government has made contribution to the global plastic and develop that. commitments on that and they’ve signed a Then we also want to have policies or global convention. But it has been delayed disaster, can be found at oceana.ca infrastructure around reducing plastics. in implementing it. We need to step that
THE KEYS TO A BLUE ECONOMY FOUR PART Wednesdays at LIVE WEBINAR SERIES 11 am - 12 pm ET
Part 1: January 20, 2021 Part 2: February 17, 2021 PRESENTED BY DEFINING THE BUILDING THE BLUE ECONOMY BLUE ECONOMY
Part 3: March 17, 2021 Part 4: April 21, 2021 GOVERNING THE INNOVATING THE
THIS EVENT IS BLUE ECONOMY BLUE ECONOMY POWERED BY
Register at watercanada.net/blue-economy
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 27 EDUCATION Credit: University of Waterloo
Youth engagement in water doesn’t just come through visiting water sources, it also comes with the expression of feelings and experiences with water through visual representation and spoken word.
Overcoming Social Challenges
Is your water management as diverse as your communities? BY ELAINE HO
WATERSHED MANAGEMENT strives to whether it needs to be rectified. Ultimately, bringing forward diverse perspectives in improve the health of aquatic ecosystems whether incorporating diverse perspectives water resource management are often as much as it does the economic, cultural, would change anything depends on the unclear. One approach is illustrated by and biophysical health of our communities. context in question and the engagement the Grand Expressions art exhibit, a Although ecological, economic, and social approach that is used. partnership between a graduate student challenges may be considered distinct, In one example from the Muskoka at University of Waterloo and an after- they are inextricably connected, which River Watershed (Ontario), managers school program, Music for the Spirit can present dilemmas when attempting tested a criteria-based ranking process for and Indigenous Visual Arts, based at Six to reconcile each aspect within a single selecting water monitoring indicators that Nations of the Grand River (Canada’s resource management framework. To encouraged them to think beyond their largest reserve by band membership). add to this complexity, identification and usual scope. A different set of indicators Intent on bringing Indigenous youth definition of these challenges are influenced resulted from using this method compared perspectives to local water managers heavily by who is involved in these activities. to their conventional approach. In in a culturally relevant way, Grand To assess how well diversity is considered addition, once these managers undertook Expressions consists of water-themed in water management, we first need to a process to identify and characterize end artwork and stories by 12 youth. The identify the underlying assumptions of users of their Watershed Report Card, the exhibit is one aspect of research that our approaches. For example, the question program was completely redesigned. As a received national recognition from the ‘what do we measure to understand result, the new Report Card (in 2018) is a Canadian Water Resources Association watershed health’ should raise questions model of communication and innovation, in May 2019, and Grand Expressions is such as whose definition of health is delivering key information in different nominated for a 2021 Canada Clean50 used, who determines priorities, why ways that are relevant to diverse audiences. Project Award. The virtual tour is on certain groups were not engaged, what the While many of us recognize the display at THEMUSEUM (Kitchener, implications of exclusion might be, and importance of diversity, methods for Ontario) until January 2021.
28 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 This new annual THE GUIDE WILL INCLUDE: publication will Post-secondary institutions Produced by provide undergraduate offering post-graduate studies. students in Canada, Career opportunities for graduates. interested in pursuing a Information on ‘Young career in the water sector, Professionals’ groups offered with a comprehensive by Canadian associations. listing of opportunities Additional resources to in the industry. build your water expertise.
DOWNSTEAM To learn more about submitting information for the guide, will be made available in contact Andrew Macklin at [email protected] print and digital formats, To learn more about advertising opportunities within the guide, for FREE, in April 2021. contact Nick Krukowski at [email protected] WaterCanada.net/Downstream EDUCATION
As part of the creation process, the political infrastructure. As such, if we Citizen “science” initiatives—i.e., young artists were asked to reflect on strive for excellence and relevance in community monitoring, surveying, their relationships with the river (locally, our communities, we need to recognize and crowdsourcing observations (e.g., the Grand River, Southern Ontario’s our management practices are not using we-based or smartphone apps largest river system). For one young representative of the diverse people that like iNaturalist and EDDMapS)—may girl, the river represents the Missing and live in our watersheds. Three actions to be useful and have the potential to fill Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls make management more relevant and capacity gaps. These initiatives engage across Canada, as domestic abuse and meaningful to the people it is meant to community members in problem Canada’s murdered peoples result in a consider are described below. identification and can form the basis for water use many will not recognize: a co-created or community-led solutions. means of disposal for bodies. Establish underlying Other forms of knowledge include Many, if not most Canadians would principles and values memories, and cultural teachings, suggest this perspective is extreme One approach for engaging with which emerge through interviews, focus and therefore invalid, nor is the issue community members infrequently (this groups, and co-created initiatives like a water quality issue; however, the is a resource-intensive undertaking), but Grand Expressions. issue is real, impacting thousands of meaningfully, is to implement strategies Co-create shared spaces Canadian and Indigenous families who for collecting community member Inclusivity involves inviting previously have lost mothers, daughters, and sisters values, recommendations, and watershed disengaged persons/groups into a space in unimaginable ways. We accept the priorities (including problems they that was not designed for them. Instead, need to manage sources of wastewater, identify and solutions they propose). The shared spaces imply the creation or feedback provided redesign of an entirely different social by community environment that is equitable to all parties Methods for bringing forward members can then involved. The Grand Expressions virtual be used to generate a exhibit is an example of a co-created diverse perspectives in water resource list of principles and shared space, where community values that can steer members defined the timing and priority-setting and management are often unclear. communication of personal experiences should be considered and cultural knowledge (i.e., via artwork) in any management while also providing interpretation nutrients, and other pollution, but what decision and the design of any projects (i.e., written stories) for those who are criterion precludes addressing social or programs moving forward. unsure how to understand the format of priorities like these? Do we ignore Grand Expressions and other projects messaging. This approach is challenging a difficult problem because it is not within the study collectively generated a because it requires flexibility and power- conceived in the dominant value system? set of 10 principles and values (view at sharing to create a sense of ownership Of course, this does not suggest that granderiestudy.ca/results). On a regional within the community. In a co-creative water management agencies should scale, management agencies (e.g., process, relationship-building should be tackle the national crisis of Missing and municipalities) and the private sector may prioritized above efficiently achieving Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. take this a step further by converting their management’s desired outcomes. Rather, the key lessons gleaned from the principles and values into a formal water There are many other approaches Grand Expression project are that (1) resource charter for local community that have been explored around the there are valuable perspectives shared by members. Either of these approaches world (often under the umbrella of many community members that are not would ensure diverse perspectives are equity-based action). The approach that brought to light in current management considered in day-to-day activities without will provide the greatest benefits for practices, and (2) the criteria by which the need for constant engagement. management and the community is one we assess which values or priorities are that engages with both to identify shared represented in management programs Recognize different forms of goals, needs, and solutions. In this way, and decisions are not equitable. The knowledge and communication diversity and collaboration can be the relevance of the issue described above Both the Muskoka example and the Grand basis for tackling increasing complex to management is not in its connection Expressions project illustrate different challenges facing each of our watersheds with water, but in the opportunity to approaches for bringing forward diverse in the future. WC build relationships by recognizing these perspectives—using criteria to determine perspectives are valid. priorities, stakeholder identification, We know many of our management mapping, and/or characterization, and Elaine Ho is a PhD candidate at systems, including the knowledge, using universal forms of expression University of Waterloo, and a student of values, and priorities we promote, are to celebrate and collect different the Collaborative Water Program held at largely founded on century-old social- lines of evidence. The Water Institute at UW.
30 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Brownie Awards 2020
Recognizing Excellence in the Remediation and Redevelopment of Brownfield Sites Across Canada
VIRTUAL Since 2000, the Brownie Awards have recognized EVENT the builders, innovators, and visionaries who are dedicated to the rehabilitation of brownfield sites Tuesday, that were once contaminated, under-utilized and November 24 undeveloped into productive residential and 3pm to commercial projects that contribute to the growth 5pm EST of healthy cities and communities across Canada
2020 AWARD CATEGORIES
REPROGRAM REINVEST RENEW BEST SMALL PROJECT Legislation, Policy Financing, Risk Redevelopment & Program Management at the community BEST LARGE PROJECT Initiatives & Partnerships scale BEST OVERALL PROJECT REMEDIATE REBUILD REACH OUT Sustainable Redevelopment Communications, BROWNFIELDER Remediation at the Marketing OF THE YEAR & Technological local site & Public Recognizing an outstanding Innovation scale Engagement individual in the industry
ORGANIZED BY PRESENTED BY 2020 AWARD CATEGORY SPONSORS
BROWNIE MIX SPONSOR
Register now for the virtual 2020 Brownie Awards being held on Nov. 24! crowdcast.io/e/BrownieAwards2020
For more information, contact Nick Krukowski at 416-444-5842 ext. 0101 or [email protected] brownieawards.ca PEOPLE & EVENTS More news items can be found at watercanada.net/topics/news
APPOINTED there is a lot of pride in seeing a stewardship, and environmental healthy and functioning ecosystem programs and services. His extensive The Niagara Peninsula with abundant biodiversity as a result background in integrated watershed Conservation Authority of the care of the land we provided. management, climate change (NPCA) announced that I hope to build upon the great work adaptation, stormwater management, Jackie Oblak has been Bob has accomplished, and I am very and low impact development was elected chair of the Public excited to be once again working with the impetus behind a number of JACKIE Advisory Committee. a great team in conservation.” important and innovative LSRCA OBLAK “The Public Advisory Lynch-Staunton joins NCC initiatives. These include phosphorus Committee acts as an important liaison after holding senior roles with the offsetting, urban restoration, low between Niagara, Haldimand, and Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, impact development, and stormwater Hamilton residents and the NPCA,” and most recently, with Alberta Beef management programs. said Oblak, “I plan to support the PAC Producers and as head of government through encouraging participation, relations and policy. Lynch-Staunton The First Nations Major respectful dialogue, and sharing of has been a mentor in the Cattlemen’s Projects Coalition perspectives. I look forward to working Young Leaders program and has sat (FNMPC) of the Coast with, and learning from, this amazing on various councils and advisory Salish Territory in group of people.” boards, including the Edmonton Food Vancouver, British Oblak now serves as chair of the Council and the Canadian Roundtable JP GLADU Columbia announced Committee, in addition to her position for Sustainable Beef, where he chaired the appointment of JP as the PAC’s environmental sector the National Beef Sustainability Gladu as a strategic advisor. representative. Her extensive volunteer Assessment and Science Advisory Gladu is a member of the Sand Point and committee experience includes Committees. First Nation in Ontario and is the previous roles as vice chair of the Ottawa former CEO of the Canadian Council Forests and Greenspace Advisory The Lake Simcoe for Aboriginal Business. His role within Committee and chair of the Torbolton Region Conservation FNMPC will focus on expanding the Forest Advisory Committee. Authority’s (LSRCA) organization’s First Nation membership Throughout her career, Oblak has Chief Administrative outside of British Columbia. He will worked on projects in climate change Officer/Secretary assist also in broadening connections adaptation, source water protection, MICHAEL Treasurer Michael between FNMPC and members of the environmental land use planning, species WALTERS Walters is retiring business community in Canada where at risk protection. She was involved in after a long career dedicated to common interests align. initiating the Hastings Prince Edward protecting and restoring the Lake “I am pleased to welcome JP Gladu to Land Trust. Simcoe watershed. the FNMPC team,” said FNMPC Board Walters served the conservation Chair Chief Sharleen Gale. “In his role The Nature Conservancy authority for over 36 years, the last as a strategic advisor, JP complements of Canada (NCC) has six at the helm as chief administrative and enhances the depth of the FNMPC announced that Tom officer. “On behalf of the board of leadership team furthering our position Lynch-Staunton is directors, I want to congratulate Mike to develop and deliver solutions that joining the organization on his much-deserved retirement, advance the growth of our members.” TOM LYNCH- as its new regional vice and thank him for his many years “[JP’s] extensive background brings STAUNTON president. of service to the Authority,” said a wealth of direct experience to help “As someone who has both worked Wayne Emmerson, chair of LSRCA. assist FNMPC in further delivering our in and enjoys the outdoors, I have a Emmerson is also the chairman and mandate to help our members broaden strong passion for conservation and chief executive officer of York region. their connections to the business stewardship of our natural areas,” said For decades, Walters has worked community on matters where we have Lynch-Staunton. “As a former rancher, in LSRCA’s science, research, shared interests,” added Chief Gale. WC
The annual Top100 Projects CELEBRATING Key Players and Owners Dinner THE BIGGEST INFRASTRUCTURE Tuesday, February 16, 2021 PROJECTS IN top100projects.ca/celebrate CANADA SAVE THE DATE SAVE
32 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 SAVE THE DATE
THE KEYS TO A BLUE ECONOMY Unlocking Water Policy, Governance and Technology in Canada
@CdnWaterSummit #CdnWaterSummit #CanadianWaterSummit watersummit.ca H2OPINION Want to share your H2Opinion? Email [email protected] Credit: Lee Jackson
One of the advanced tertiary treatment technologies used to transform wastewater into potable water was ACWA’s Reverse Osmosis membrane system. Turning Waste(water) into Gold
BY LEE JACKSON
WATER IS ESSENTIAL TO LIFE. Growing developers to innovate and create new per cent (2.2 billion) of global citizens populations are currently expected solutions in accordance with regulations. In currently lack access to safe drinking to decrease their per capita volume of Canada, the siloing of water management water. The UN also predicts that water clean water, unless they find ways to do and lack of direct potable reuse regulations demand will increase by 70 per cent by more with the same or less. Technologies means there is little incentive to develop 2050 when we are ~9.5 billion people. currently exist that can turn wastewater direct potable reuse solutions. As the global population grows and the directly into safe, drinkable water. Why is this example the first direct effects of changing climate alter water Yet barriers exist to making this potable reuse in Alberta, and possibly cycles, direct potable reuse options could commonplace in Canada. Canada? How was the lack of a help many communities. Recently, a partnership between framework overcome? In the case of As a homebrewer for nearly 30 years, Advancing Canadian Wastewater Assets, turning waste(water) into gold (Village I understand how important my water Village Brewery, Xylem Technologies, Blonde was brewed), the push barrier is to making good beer. Just as clean and Alberta Health Services turned was overcome by a shared vision and water is to sustaining life. Now that wastewater to potable water and then collaboration among the four parties. there is an Alberta example of turning into beer. The project was announced It also came from the fact that Alberta the worse water (raw sewage) into the publicly on Earth Overshoot Day—August Health Services was already two years best water (drinking water), I argue 22, 2020—a poignant context when the into developing a provincial framework that we need a collective sense of global population consumed nature’s for water reuse. Successful approvals urgency, among regulators, researchers, budget for 2020. Brewing beer created a had previously been granted for reuse, technology developers, and the public direct potable reuse example that certainly such as car washes, that was expanded to accelerate the development of reuse grabbed peoples’ attention—good and bad. to include direct potable reuse through solutions, including direct potable reuse. Comments on social media ranged from development of a Water Safety Plan. We need to devise solutions for water “disgusting—I’ll never drink your beer To many Canadians, the idea that our scarcity today while there still options. again” to “fantastic idea.” water is, or ever could become, in short We need to increase peoples’ awareness Market demand creates ‘pull’ for an supply is nonsense. After all, many of us and literacy for water challenges and undeveloped good or service. Undoubtedly, live on or near the Great Lakes. Despite possible solutions. Success will require the largest barrier for many people—the the water prosperity currently enjoyed by collective action. WC lack of pull—derives from the “yuck” factor, many Canadians who live in large cities something the launch promotion materials with centralized infrastructure, far too addressed head on. The yuck factor is the many Canadians in remote communities root of an educational challenge to change today are on boil water advisories, in Lee Jackson is a professor the notion that direct potable reused some cases exceeding a decade, or even in the Department of Biological Sciences at the water is not safe. do not consume advisories. University of Calgary. He is Regulators have legal authority and thus UNICEF and the World Health also the scientific director of provide ‘push,’ which motivates technology Organization suggest that globally, 33 Advancing Canadian Wastewater Assets.
34 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020