Breaking Ground Toolkit Creating a Greener, Healthier City a Citizen's Guide to Urban Greening

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breaking ground toolkit creating a greener, healthier city A Citizen's Guide to Urban Greening

Produced for the Breaking Ground Conference May 2002, Calgary Alberta Acknowledgements

As Calgary becomes a larger, economically vigorous urban Compiled and Designed by Zoë Langevin, centre, there is also more potential for a natural, greener and in consultation with The Calgary Foundation a healthier environment. The means exist to create a city that and the City of Calgary Parks. c enhances the well-being of individuals and communities. This k toolkit is a result of the Breaking Ground Conference held from n o May 2 - 4th, 2002 in Calgary, Alberta. The Breaking Ground Parks Foundation, Calgary has partnered with the following organizations to bring you the w Conference, a regional conference, is an Evergreen partnership l initiative and is hosted by Parks Foundation, Calgary. It is one Breaking Ground Conference: e series of conferences to be delivered across Canada between d 2000 and 2002. This series is part of the Evergreen Canada g e Initiative (ECI), a partnership program to transform thousands m of degraded urban areas across Canada into dynamic natural e spaces that bring communities and nature together. The n resources in this toolkit are intended to assist individuals, t community members, planners and designers in realizing s the goal of a greener and more sustainable city.

Special thanks must be given to the many organizations who gave permission to reprint their material and to the individuals that took time out of their busy day to be interviewed.

The toolkit has been made possible through the generous support of:

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements 1 c o Introduction 3 n t Evergreen 4 e n In your backyard: Low maintenance landscaping 5 t Wildlife habitat in your yard 6 s In your neighbourhood: Community gardens 8 Preserving green spaces 10 Schoolyard naturalization 12 Tree planting 14 Reviewing development permits 16

In your city: The planning process 17 Ecological infrastructure 18 Smart growth 20 Pesticide use 21

Calgary case studies: Robert McClure Garden 8 Griffith Woods 10 Milton Williams Middle School 12 Inner City Tree Committee 14

Additional Information: Community action 22 Photo City of Calgary Parks Community organizations 23 Funding sources 26

Maps: Community Recreation 28 Coordinators

Sources: Resource list 29

Conference Sponsors: 31 2 Introduction

The information in this toolkit has been compiled from a number of books, brochures, websites and reports. Please see page 29 for a complete list of credits. i n t ToolKit Organization r The handbook is organized into four sections: o d 1. In your backyard: Possible projects to undertake on your property u Topics: Low maintenance landscaping c Wildlife habitat in your yard t i o 2. In your neighbourhood: Ideas and information for community initiatives n Topics: Community gardens Preserving green spaces Schoolyard naturalization Photo City of Calgary Parks Tree planting Reviewing development permits Please USE this toolkit, photocopy it, share it! Use the toolkit to plan your garden, shape your 3. In your city: Projects and information for community groups community or rethink municipal policies! or people working in planning and development: Topics: Ecological infrastructure The topics are explained by: Pesticide use 1. Urban greening principles: an explanation of the topics Smart growth and their key principles of urban greening. The planning process 2. Getting started: an outline of the initial steps for undertaking the respective projects. The steps are designed 4. Additional Information: More information to assist with urban greening pursuits for either individuals or groups, depending on the project. Topics: Ecological playground ideas 3. Resources: Books, booklets, funding information or websites Community Action (writing letters to politicians) with Calgary related information. 4. Support: Organizations or individuals that can assist with urban greening projects in Calgary. 5. Examples: When possible, examples in and around Calgary are listed.

3 Evergreen

Welcome to the Calgary Breaking Ground regional conference! By As a community member, planner, decision-maker or concerned participating in this conference you are helping lay the groundwork citizen, the following resources will prove useful, and are e to transform urban landscapes into rich, engaging naturalized examples of what you can find in the Tool Shed: v areas. Evergreen is committed to greening the urban landscapes e and will provide on-going support to realize sustainable community Naturalization Policy Guidelines For Canadian Municipalities (2001): r This resource provides practical guidelines to help municipalities g projects. This support includes staff expertise and organization r experience, our resources and Web site. promote naturalization through their official plans, policies and e operating procedures. 57 pages, $15. e Evergreen is a national non-profit environmental organization with n a mandate to bring nature to our cities through naturalization Ground Work: Investigating the Need For Nature in the City (2000): projects. We motivate people to create and sustain healthy, natural This research report examines the environmental, social and outdoor spaces and give them the practical tools to be successful economic benefits of restoring healthy natural landscapes in through our three core programs: the urban environment. 25 pages, $15.

Learning Grounds transforms concrete school grounds into natural No Plot is Too Small: A Community's Guide to Restoring Public "outdoor classrooms" with students, teachers and neighbours. Lands (2000): Learn how to plan a successful and sustainable local naturalization initiative with this unique step-by-step Common Grounds works with communities to create vibrant natural resource that will guide you through the planning process. areas in the public spaces they share. 48 pages, $15.

Home Grounds supports individuals creating natural environments at To order these resources or for the latest information on home - in gardens and on rooftops and balconies. Evergreen's other Tool Shed resources, check out our web site at www.evergreen.ca or contact Evergreen in Vancouver The Evergreen Tool Shed is an integrated collection of resources (604)689-0766, Toronto (416)596-1495 or toll free in Canada designed to inspire, educate and guide you through all the stages 1-888-426-3138. of a school, community or home naturalization project. It includes guidebooks, instructional and inspirational videos, fact sheets, We'd like to congratulate the conference organizers on all of case studies, newsletters, research reports and online project registry. their hard work and feel confident that , as participants, you will walk away inspired to bring nature to your city, create Evergreen's sponsors are: vibrant neighbourhoods and a sustainable society for all.

Sincerely, Evergreen

4 Low Maintenance Landscaping

Urban Greening Principles Examples Low maintenance landscaping, which includes xeriscaping and naturalization, Many of the school naturalization projects use low maintenance i provides an opportunity for environmental stewardship on your property. principles for their landscaping. Milton Williams School n (92 Malibou Rd SW) and Olympic Heights School (875 y Design a garden that requires less maintenance, less water, no chemicals Strathcona Dr SW) demonstrate different types of native and features native Alberta plants. o landscaping. u r Resources and Support Getting Started Go for Green, a national not for profit, website b a http://www.goforgreen.ca/gardening/index.html has fact c The following low maintenance principles, from Creating the Prairie Xeriscape, sheets on ecological lawn maintenance, creating a wildflower k outline how to turn your yard into a low maintenance haven: meadow, using native plants and more. y a 1. Design for water conservation. The Calgary Horticultural Society's The Calgary Gardener: r d Group plants according to their similar water needs, consider the grade of the Essential Guide to Gardening in Alberta's Chinook Country. the site, and percolation. Incorporate a rainwater catchment container into While this book does not speak specifically about xeriscaping, your yard to hold rainwater and rooftop runoff. it is the bible for Calgary gardeners! The Calgary Horticultural Society also holds workshops on topics such as composting 2. Use organic mulching to conserve water, reduce weeding and improve your soil. and wildflower gardens. Check their website Improve your soil by adding organic mulches such as compost, peat moss, http://www.calhort.org or call the Society (403) 243-5537 and manures to condition your soil, add nutrients and increase your soil's for more information. ability to hold nutrients and water. University of Calgary Faculty of Continuing Education 3. Reduce your lawn, therefore reducing water, chemical use and mowing time. This faculty regularly runs courses on low maintenance Lawns are high maintenance, have high water and pesticide needs. Evaluate gardening. Call the Faculty for course information and how much lawn you need. Keep enough space for children and xeriscape scheduling at (403) 220- 2866 or check their website at remaining areas. http://www.cted.ucalgary.ca

4. Choose appropriate plants. Creating the Prairie Xeriscape by Sara Williams Choose drought tolerant plants and place them in the appropriate growing places. Published by the University of Saskatchewan (1997). Available for loan at the Calgary Public Library, 5. Water efficiently. call# 635.9525 WIL Knowing when and how to water plants will save you time and money.

5 Wildlife Habitat in Your Yard

Urban Greening Principles i n Our backyards, patios and balconies can all be part of urban greening. These spaces can become home to a variety of wildlife species: y birds, butterflies, valuable insects, bats and more. Not only will o these species bring wildlife viewing opportunities to your backyard, u r they also assist in keep unwanted species out. b a Getting Started c k Interested in turning your yard into a wildlife refuge? y Here are some tips to get you started: a r 1. Assess your spaces for its provision of the 4 wildlife requirements d space - consider your yard as part of a larger ecosystem Photo City of Calgary Parks food - plant fruit bearing trees Creating a wildlife refuge in your backyard allows you to: water - provide bird baths, ponds, fountains shelter - keep dead trees, log piles, brush piles 1. Get to know local ecosystems.

2. Choose a diversity of plants that are native to Alberta. 2. Create and enhance habitat that has been altered 3. Include an understory of plants, incorporate grasses and shrubs by urban development. under trees in your design. 4. Add water features, nest boxes, log and brush piles. 3. Experience nature in your own backyard. 5. Emulate nature in your design. Incorporate curves, clusters, and clumping instead of straight edges and symmetrical designs. 4. Increase the ecological diversity that has been 6. Decide which species you want to attract. minimized by conventional landscaping. 7. Share your backyard habitat ideas with your neighbours to gain their understanding and acceptance of your yard.

6 Wildlife Habitat in Your Yard

Examples The Inglewood Wildlands i West of the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary 2425 9 Ave SE n The Inglewood Wildlands is a rehabilitated polluted industrial site y in Calgary's inner city. The Wildlands include a wildflower meadow, o wild berry orchard, dogwood grove, a thornbush thicket with wild u r roses to attract birds, and a pond and stream, for a variety of rodents and birds. This project was a cooperative effort between industry b and community groups a c k Resources y Canadian Wildlife Federation a r Backyard Habitat for Canada's Wildlife Guidebook ($19.95). d Photo City of Calgary Parks This guidebook outlines ways to create habitat in your backyard for people living in all types of dwellings. Contact [email protected].

Naturescape Alberta http://www.naturescape.ab.ca

National Wildlife Federation (USA), http://www.nwf.org/backyardwildlifehabitat/

7 Community Gardens

Urban Greening Principles i Community gardens provide an excellent opportunity to "green" n previously vacant or derelict lands. Unused space in cities can become y vibrant gardens for growing local produce, increasing community o green space and strengthening community relations. u r Resources n City Farmer, Canada's Office of the Agriculture e i Community Gardens: Sample Rules and Regulations g www.cityfarmer.org/gardenrules.html h b Calgary Horticultural Society o How to Start A Community Garden (booklet) u Available through the Society's office, call 287-3469. r h o o Getting Started d Getting People Involved: 1. Get a group of committed people together that are interested in joining a community garden. Hiillhurst/Sunnyside Community Garden 2. Hold a meeting and invite the Community Garden Resource Group Photo Gae VanSiri (Calgary Horticultural Society (403) 287-3469. 3. Discuss the perceptions of community gardens and its objectives. Community Gardens have a long history in Calgary. 4. Assess peoples' level of interest. In 1914, the Vacant Lots Garden Club was established 5. Determine a method for decision making. to deal with the cultivation of vacant city lots. The club's 6. Delegate tasks and give deadlines. purpose was to supply Calgarians hit by hard times with locally grown produce.

8 Community Gardens

Robert McClure Community Garden Choosing a location: Nestled in the northeast community of Temple on church land is 1. Look for a piece of vacant land with access to sun and water. i the Robert McClure community garden. Five volunteers researched 2. Assess the site's location, slope and space, keeping safety in mind. n and wrote a mission statement prior to starting the garden. "I 3. Once decided on the ideal site, verify the landowner. just had to sell the idea to the church members'" explains y 4. Research the site's history, confirm the absence of "unfriendly o volunteer Nita Ross "and they were excited about the project." substances" in the site's history. u The result is a community garden actualized through the efforts 5. Inquire into the owner's plans and support for a potential r of different groups. Clean Calgary and the City of Calgary installed garden on the property. n the compost trail, and Child and Youth Friendly Calgary built a 6. Inquire into insurance for community gardens. straw bale shed. "We installed two large cisterns to collect water e 7. With the owner's permission, perform a test for heavy metals i from the church roof" says Nita Ross. The garden also includes and nutrients in the soil before making final agreement. g raised beds which makes it easier for seniors living in the h adjacent senior complex to participate. b Support o u Key Challenges: Master Gardeners r Volunteer commitment: A challenge to keep volunteers committed Pauline Davies, Horticulture Programmer h over a long period of time. Calgary Zoo, Master Gardener Volunteers o 232- 9335, fax 261 - 9091 o Upkeep: Difficult to get all the gardeners to accept responsibility d for some of the community aspects of the garden (i.e. watering The Community Garden Resource Group shrubs, keeping common space clean.) The Calgary Horticultural Society www.calhort.org Key Successes: Installation of raised beds tripled the participation of gardeners Examples over 60 years of age. There are many community gardens flourishing in Calgary and more to come! Below is a selection of gardens around the Gardeners and volunteers have a greater understanding of city that demonstrate the range of possible community sustainable construction, waste disposal and water conservation. gardens.

Advice For Others: SW - Cliff Bungalow/Mission NW - Hillhurst Sunnyside Seek the assistance of a Master Gardener. Their expertise is essential. 24th Ave and 1st St SW Sunnyhill Lane and 4th St NW (Master Gardeners are trained volunteers available to assist with SE - Victoria Park NE - Robert McClure community gardens and schoolyard naturalization projects.) 1039 - 18 Avenue SE 5510 - 26th Ave NE

Hire a paid coordinator who can be around on a consistent basis. 9 Preserving Green Spaces

Urban Greening Principles i Restoring a shared space is a way for people to reconnect to their n natural heritage and bring back the ecological features that y define a community's identity and make it unique. Regardless of o the scale of a project, whether it is focused on enhancing a u neighbourhood parkette or bringing an urban river back to life, r community greening revolves around people working together in a spirit of cooperation. n e i Some preserving green space goals may include: increasing the g diversity of plants along a valley corridor or urban greenway, h establishing a wildflower meadow, stabilizing an eroding hillside… Photo City of Calgary Parks b there are many possibilities! o u r Support Griffith Woods Natural Area h "The dedication of the 228 acre Griffith Woods on the o City of Calgary Elbow River was the highlight of the summer of 2000" o Adopt-A-Park Program d says Norm Harburn, Executive Director of the Parks http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/parks_operations/parks/community_ Foundation, Calgary. The donation by the Wilbur Griffith neighborhood/adopt_a_park.html Family is the largest private land donation in Calgary's Volunteer program to care and maintain public green spaces, flower history. beds and parks. Evergreen's Common Ground Services on Land Protection, "The River Valleys Committee volunteers under the strong check their website www.evergreen.ca from more information chairmanship of John Simonot" says Norm, or contact their Land Trust Specialist at (416) 596-1495 ext 24. "understood that bringing together a potential donor to the City meant the coordination of many different Forever Green departments to sort out various jurisdictional http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/parks_operations/parks/urban_forest/ needs". The result is a beautiful 228 acre natural area forever_green/partnership.html park named after a long-time resident. Griffith Woods Sponsorship Coordinator at 221-4689. is an absolute gem in the park system. Partnership Opportunities between the City, community organizations, and corporations for greening projects. Parks Foundation, Calgary Parks Foundation, Calgary Http://www.parksfdn.com/ Phone (403) 974- 0751 10 Preserving Green Spaces

Getting Started i 1. Scope out a site. Potential sites include parkettes, pathways, n a ravine… 2. Come up with a broad vision for the site, one that is clear y enough to describe what you have in mind but broad enough o u to incorporate other people's ideas. r 3. Talk to organizations such as the Parks Foundation, Calgary (403) 974-0751 and the City of Calgary, Forever Green Sponsorship n Coordinator at (403) 221-4689 about their potential interest e and willingness to support a community naturalization i g project. Ask them to join a preliminary organizing committee. h Photo City of Calgary Parks 4. Get local politicians involved, contact your alderman and b request their support and advice in the project. Invite o the alderman to attend a preliminary meeting. u 5. Find out who the site's land owner is. It will most likely r Key Challenges: h Working with many different City departments to sort out be City property if it is a park or public open space. o jurisdiction needs. Contact the land owner (City of Calgary Corporate Properties o Department at (403) 268-2251 or City of Calgary Parks d Dealing with a large GST as a result of the several million (403)268-5204), determine the land use for the site (Planning dollar donation and Building, (403) 268 - 5351), future plans for it, and Resources: the possibility for a naturalization project. Financial resources were split between the City land department a. If the site is not owned by the City, contact a Calgary and the developer, United Inc. Agent for Alberta Registries, (see license and registry section in the yellow pages) to verify the land's ownership. There Advice For Others: is a fee for this service. Possible private lands that are Once a donor is known, pull together the best people from appropriate for community naturalization projects include the appropriate City departments, Foundations, and community corporate and industrial lands, abandoned railway lines and interest groups to make the idea a reality. utility corridors. b. If the site is on private property, check restrictions and access on the property. Examples Valley View Park, Griffith Woods Natural Area, Elliston Park, See the Evergreen No Plot Is Too Small booklet for more Prairie Winds Park details on the process of preserving a green space in your community. 11 Schoolyard Naturalization

Urban Greening Principles Milton Williams School "Learning Grounds" i Restoring school grounds is about restoring the spirit of places. School In June 2000, parents, students and staff from Milton Williams n grounds are special places for play and for learning and nature has Middle School worked together to transform ordinary asphalt y an important role in both. Naturalizing school grounds necessitates into a naturalized garden. The principal, Sandra Neidermeier, o learning how to read the landscape. Every landscape should be an notes that the garden "Milton Williams Learning Grounds" u expression of the conditions - built and natural - of your local was the result of a culmination of huge support from parents, r bioregion. The created environment should be reflective of the native along with assistance from the school's students and staff. A sandstone amphitheatre, a herb garden, and wildflowers n landscape. e are just the beginnings of the school's nature sanctuary. i g Getting Started Key Challenges: h Timing: funding is often not in sync with the group's timing b and plans. o The main things to consider in schoolyard naturalization are to: u 1. Strive for responsible design - use ecological designs which strive High season for labourers: planting occurs during the prime r for a balance between a site's natural history, its current ecological work time for landscapers therefore there is not much h setting and human interaction with the area. willingness for donating time or equipment. o 2. Adopt a participatory process - invite everyone who might have o Upkeep: while the garden uses native plants, there still is d an interest in the school grounds, or may be affected by them, to much initial watering and weeding to do in the garden's provide input and participate (i.e. include teachers, caretakers, parents, beginning stages. the principal, school administrators, neighbours and students). 3. Connect to the curriculum - for a naturalization project to be Key Successes: successful at school, every effort should be made to integrate the The students love the garden and they have a place to go development, monitoring and maintenance of the grounds with what at lunch time. happens in the classroom. Many great references exist that incorporate Students have ownership in the garden, all students each naturalization into the prescribed curriculum requirements. plant a flower. 4. Reach out to the Community - reaching out beyond the school community for everything from dollars to materials to specialized Advice For Others: advice will help your group achieve all that it sets out to do while Seek parent support through school council, a key link when engaging others in the joy of helping to realize a good idea. needing funding. Work with a qualified landscape designer or horticulturist. Have school administration committed to the idea. Their skills are invaluable for site design and choosing species. Involve the community and students, they need to have ownership. 12 Schoolyard Naturalization Support Jane Reksen i Schoolyard naturalization coordinator, Calgary Zoo n Phone 232-7768, Fax 261-9091 [email protected], www.calgaryzoo.ab.ca y o Pauline Davies, Horticulture Programmer u Master Gardeners, Calgary Zoo r Phone 232-7725, Fax 261-9091 n Robert Illick e Calgary Board of Education i Supervisor Grounds Maintenance g (403) 214 - 1147 [email protected] h b o Bernie Hines u Photo Zoë Langevin Maintenance Division r Calgary Catholic School Board h (403) 253-7732 o Examples o There are many schoolyard naturalization projects that are in d progress or completed in Calgary. Some examples are: Resources The Calgary Zoo, From the Calgary Zoo: How to Naturescape Altadore Elementary School a School Ground 4506 16 St SW Calgary Zoo, Grounds For Change - A User's Guide to Ecole St. Pius Schoolyard Naturalization Project. 2312 18 St NW Evergreen, All Hands in the Dirt: A Guide to Designing Milton Williams Middle School and Creating Natural School Grounds. 92 Malibou Rd SW Curriculum Materials Olympic Heights School Thomson, Gareth and Sue Arlidge. Five-Minute Field Trips: 875 Strathcona Drive SW Teaching About Nature in Your Schoolyard. (2000) Global Environmental and Outdoor Education Council of the Alberta Sunnyside Community School Teacher's Association and the Calgary Zoo, Calgary, AB. 211 7 St NW The University of Alberta Devonian Botanic Garden. Environmental School Program: A Teacher's Guide (1996). 13 Tree Planting

Urban Greening Principles The Inner City Forest Committee i The residents of Connaught have something that no other n The urban forest is an important greening feature for cities. The community has - a detailed user friendly report of the trees benefits of urban trees are: found in their community. After hearing about their successful y . Cooling our cities (reduce the urban heat island effect) and planet, o tree inventory in Mission/ Cliff Bungalow, the Inner City helping to reduce the dangers of global warming. u Forest Committee, a sub-group of the Connaught Community . Reducing the need for air conditioning by significantly lowering the r Association, contacted research collaborators Dr. Bev heat absorption of asphalt and concrete. Sandalack and Andrei Nicolai to update the community's n . Reducing water run-off and soil erosion. e tree inventory. A one-day workshop, attended by 14 . Providing wildlife habitat and a foundation for ecosystems of i community residents, familiarized the volunteers with street interrelated plants and animals. g tree biology and ways to identify trees. The afternoon was . Absorbing noise and dust, as well as atmospheric carbon dioxide in h spent walking the streets in Connaught and cataloguing all b the form of carbon. the trees. The result is a 50 page user friendly report of the o . Contributing to the aesthetics of a city, providing visual relief and u tree inventory and a map (both electronic and paper) of the enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. r trees. "The community members have an opportunity to h understand their community on another level" explained o Dr. Sandalack. o Getting Started d The City of Calgary's tree planting programs are: Key Challenges: Timing: The group was not able to catalogue all the trees Planting Incentive Program (PIP) within the allotted amount of time. Most of the volunteers The PIP is a tree planting program approved for residential had to complete the inventory the following day. boulevards. Community associations, neighborhood groups or Project Design: Developing a method to enable the volunteers individuals may apply to have trees planted on a 50% cost to be able to identify trees and catagorize them within a matching basis with Calgary Parks. The application deadline short time period. is June 30 of each year. Key successes: Community Tree Planting Connaught residents can use the report to improve and expand Through this program the City of Calgary provides trees to the existing urban forest. qualifying communities that wish to beautify their area and In depth knowledge of the local ecology. support Calgary’s urban forest initiative. Visit the Community Tree Planting Program website (see above) or call (403) 221-4660 to Project Essentials: findout how your community can qualify. A group of committed volunteers. If your community is interested in doing a similar tree inventory 14 contact Dr.Sandalack at 220-4517 or email at [email protected] Tree Planting Support and Resources The City of Calgary i Planting Incentive Program (PIP) n Community Tree Planting Program y http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/parks_operations/parks/urban_forest/forever_green/ o Contact the City of Calgary Urban Forestry & Resource Management u @ 221-4660 for more information. r n Examples e Elliston Park, located in the east corner of Calgary, is home of the i BirthPlace Forest. Here, new parents celebrate the birth of their babies g h by choosing new trees in the BirthPlace Forest and marking each tree b with the name of a different child. The BirthPlace Forest Program is o the first of its kind in Canada and it is reshaping the way communities u everywhere promote environmental sustainability. r h o Launched in December of 2001 by the City of Calgary Parks and its o partners BP Canada Energy Company, Golden Acre Garden Sentres and d Calgary Health Region, Calgary's first BirthPlace Forest at Elliston Park will have a tree planted in it for every baby born in Calgary hospitals from January, 2001. Some 5,600 babies have been registered for the program to date. It is the only free program of its kind in Canada and it is the largest "green" initiative in Calgary's history.

Photo City of Calgary Parks

15 Reviewing Development Permits

Development permits are normally reviewed by the community Urban Greening Principles association or the community association's planning committee. i Successful urban greening efforts should involve the public through n all phases of development, from planning and design, through to planting The membership of the planning committee is very important. and ongoing maintenance. In fact, many greening projects have been The committee should include: y . o initiated by the community rather then the local municipality. Public At least one person with experience related to planning and u participation not only builds community support and awareness, it understanding of the process from a technical or professional r perspective (i.e. an architect, an urban planner, a developer). fosters a sense of environmental stewardship. .3 - 10 people on the committee that provide a variety of n perspectives on development proposals. Application reviews should not be done by one person. e . i Getting Started Select members who represent a cross-section of the community, including at least one local business owner. g . h For reviewing development permits, consider the following elements: If your community has an Area Redevelopment Plan, select b someone who has sat on the ARP committee (if possible). o 1. Are you familiar with the site? u 2. Does the proposal help achieve the intent and expectations of any Resources r approved policies (e.g. Area Redevelopment Plan available at the Planning The City of Calgary, A Community Guide to the Planning h and Transportation Policy Information Centre .) If your community does Process: Planning Education Program (1998). This o not have an approved policy but has previously defined community o document is available from the Federation of Calgary d goals, consider how the proposal will contribute to achieving your goals. Communities (244-4111) or the Planning Policy 3. How will the proposal impact the neighbours and the community Department (268-5311) for a small fee. regarding such things as: - compatibility with the neighbourhood (aesthetics) The Planning and Transportation Policy Information Centre - the relationship to the surrounding buildings and the has all of the City's policy documents publicly available for streetscape impact viewing or for sale. It is located on the 4th Floor, 800 Macleod - driveway (access locations) and parking Trail, SE. (The Municipal Building). Phone: (403) 268-5333. - landscaping and possible retention of mature vegetation, height, Fax: (403) 268-4615. Email: [email protected] massing, yard setbacks, use of native plant species - drainage (hard surface or soft surface) Support - location of trees The Federation of Calgary Communities (FCC) Phone: (403) 244-4111 Fax: (403) 244.4129 Please refer to the Planning Process (page 17) for more information http://www.calgarycommunities.com/ on the planning process in Calgary. e-mail: [email protected] The FCC holds workshops for communities on the planning process. Call the FCC for details. 16 The Planning Process

Urban Greening Principles Resources i Attending public planning events with a good understanding of the The City of Calgary, A Community Guide to the Planning Process: n planning process and a critical eye is necessary to give a proper Planning Education Program (1998). This document is available review of future developments in your community. Familiarity with from the FCC (244-4111) or the Planning Policy Department y the planning process, combined with the knowledge of what to look (268-5311) for a small fee. o for in plans and policies is needed to identify details that encourage u r or discourage your community's urban greening goals. Encourage Support The Federation of Calgary Communities (FCC) those policies that are supportive and provide criticism on those c that prevent urban greening. Phone: (403) 244-4111 Fax: (403) 244- 4129 i FCC hosts workshops on presentation skills for Council, t Community Transportation Planning, the Land Use By-law, and more. y

The Planning Hierarchy Land Use By-law Redesignation Subdivision Subdivision regulations Municipal Development Plan Community Plans Area Structure Plans Development Permit Area Redevelopment Plans Building Permit Alberta Building Code

Getting Started

The key areas for encouraging urban greening in policies are: The key areas for public involvement in the planning process are: (depending on the particular policy document) Municipal Development plan Establish a set boundary/ growth Growth Area Management plan limit for urban development. . The issue identification stage, through surveys, open houses or meetings Zone abandoned rail corridors as ER*. Land Use By - laws . The circulation of the draft plans and development proposals Develop a naturalization category for ER. (application is circulated to the Community Association, Revise landscaping by-laws to Ward Alderman and any applicable special interest group). encourage biophysical diversity. .Writing letters to the Calgary Planning Commission when Development Permits Fast track environmentally friendly the proposed plan is produced. developments. *Environmental Reserve 17 Ecological Infrastructure Urban Greening Principles Ecological infrastructure is an interconnected network of protected Photo Lamont Reality Corporation i land and water that supports native species, maintains natural n ecological processes, sustains air and water resources and contributes to the health and quality of life for communities and people. Ecological y infrastructure has a wide range of applications. It can support: o u - water conservation programs & initiatives - temperature modification r - parks and pathways - crime prevention c - habitat creation & enhancement - public education & stewardship i - greenhouse gas reduction - street design & landscaping t y Getting Started

The following ideas are possibilities for community-based initiatives or for people working in the planning and development field.

For people working in the planning and development field: 1. Address ecological infrastructure in Calgary's Land Use By-laws, Area Structure Plans, Area Redevelopment Plans, Community Plans, Master Plans and other City policy documents. Include specific goals and guidelines in policies to encourage developers.

2. Create development permit applications and subdivision applications which encourage or require ecological infrastructure. Provide ecological guidelines up front to developers to assist them in conforming. Examples 3. Develop supportive pest management policies and programs. The Bridlewood Creek Wetland in Bridlewood (map above) is part of the community's storm water management system. For community members: Instead of the conventional approach of removing natural 4. Review existing policies, codes and by-laws for constraints. Regulations features (such as wetlands) the developers integrated may exist that presently prevent the provision of ecological infrastructure. it into the design. Advise City Aldermen and planners of outdated regulations that discourage ecological infrastructure efforts. Elbow Valley Estates on Highway 8 also incorporates ecological infrastructure by using swales and retaining 5. Advocate for supportive by-laws for the naturalization of private property. the site's native vegetation as part of the community design. 18 Ecological Infrastructure

Policy Support Support for ecological infrastructure is found in i n policies and funding. You can advocate for ecological infrastructure by being familiar with the municipal y policy that supports it: o u The City of Calgary Municipal Development Plan(MDP): r The following policies are amongst others found in c the MDP that support ecological infrastructure. i Healthy Environments (page 20). t 2-1A Commit to environmental leadership to conserve, y protect and improve the environment for the benefit of Calgarians and the regional and global community. 2-1C Recognize the importance of ensuring that the principles of sustainable development and environmental sensitivity are embodied in all planning decisions, particularly those related to: Photo City of Calgary Parks - specific land use and development decisions - management of the overall growth strategy - planning for the individual communities, both old and new. Resources 2-1F Encourage preventative approaches to environmental Evergreen, Urban Naturalization: A Policy and problems. Program Guidebook. Check their website for more information www.evergreen.ca. Ensure that your alderman is familiar with ecological The Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development infrastructure! Fax them these pages. Building Eco-Efficient Communities, A How - To - Guide (1997). Phone (403) 269-3377 for more information.

19 Smart Growth

Urban Greening Principles Getting Started i Smart Growth encourages cities to establish growth boundaries to n prevent further urban sprawl. Smart Growth promotes efficient use To encourage Smart Growth: y of land zoned for urban development. Concepts such as mixed use Talk to your Alderman, inform them about Smart Growth principles. o development (combining residential and commercial), transit friendly Ask for your Alderman to demand Smart Growth in new planning u design, higher density developments, and pedestrian pathways fall documents. r under the umbrella of Smart Growth. Green spaces need to meet Smart Growth can be applied in any of these planning policies: c recreational needs and environmental ones. i In Land Use Bylaws, the Municipal Development Plan, & t Examples Community Plans: y Hillhurst, Sunnyside, and Garrison Woods incorporate many of the Land Use Strategies: Incorporate centrally located hubs of principles of Smart Growth. On the policy side The City's Sustainable activity, mix use zoning, solar energy zones. Suburbs Study is an example of non-statutory policy document that Transportation Strategies: Consider multi-use street design, provides the framework for smart growth. The Sustainable Suburbs parking plans to increase transit use, bike routes & services Study outlines the fiscal, social and environmental characteristics of to encourage bikes, car pool programs, car share initiatives. a sustainable community. These characteristics correspond to many Smart Growth principles. In Community & Subdivision Plans: Land Use & Transportation Strategies: Implement density Support thresholds, job to residential ratios, population targets to The Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development attract businesses into the area, transit access features, bicycle http://www.pembina.org/ Phone: (403) 269-3344 and pedestrian amenities, parking location and design, performance point systems for essential design characteristics. Sustainable Calgary http://www.telusplanet.net/public/sustcalg/ In Site Planning & Building Design: Phone: (403) 270-8672 Land Use & Transportation Strategies: Incorporate on-site bicycle and pedestrian amenities, setbacks and facades that Sierra Club - Calgary http://prairie.sierraclub.ca/Chinook/index.htm are oriented to the street, landscaping that creates a buffer Phone (403) 201-0330 for pedestrians, provides windbreaks and shading. Resources The Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development, Building Eco-Efficient BC Energy Aware committee Communities, A How - To - Guide (1997). To order phone: (403) 269-3344 www.energyaware.bc.ca The City of Calgary, Planning & Building Department, Sustainable Smart Growth BC Suburbs Study: Creating More Fiscally, Socially and Environmental www.smartgrowth.bc.ca Sustainable Communities (1995) (Planning and Transportation Policy.) 20 Pesticide Use

The City of Calgary's Policies on Pesticide Use IPM Plan Principles . Use an ecological approach to vegetation and pest management i The City of Calgary's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan provides n information on how to prevent and manage pests on lands within the that strives to reduce reliance on pesticides as well as integrate City of Calgary. The IPM Plan was developed through discussions between preventative measures and alternative control technology. y City staff and public interest groups. Over a two-year period, meetings . Minimize the risk to human health and the environment. o . Consider cost-effectiveness and operational feasibility. u and open houses were held to clarify public concerns. The IPM Plan r was approved by Council in January 1998. . Consider community values. . Take a leadership role by educating citizens and private c landowners about, and promoting an environmentally-sound i Getting Started integrated approach, to pest management. t . Apply IPM principles when planning, designing, constructing, y Follow these principles to ensure a healthy yard: and renovating projects. 1. Inspect your yard regularly. Once a week take a close look at the . Ensure accountability in pesticide use through a regular condition of your soil, the health of your plants and grass, and the reporting system. types of creatures that make your back yard their home. Identifying new territory early gives you a better chance to control the pests. Examples The community of Hillhurst/Sunnyside was recently successful 2. Determine what needs to be done. If your plants do not look healthy, in having New Edinborough Park designated pesticide free. try to diagnose the problem. Consider whether your own gardening practices have contributed to the problem. Poor turf health encourages Resources weeds, insects and diseases. The solution may be to change the way Lawns for Kids (403) 286-6473 you maintain your property. Sierra Club Calgary, Just Say No to Pesticides, www.prairie.sierraclub.ca 3. Evaluate your methods of response. Some effective alternatives to pesticides include: hand pick problem pests, water control, using simple Call the City of Calgary Parks at (403) 221-4660 for a copy barriers, biological control and at last resort using the least-toxic chemical of the following booklets: controls. 1. The Pesticide Education and Best Practices Sub-Committee A Calgarian's Guide to a Healthy Yard 4. Act responsibly. Maintain a healthy yard that encourages a variety of species and uses pest control alternatives. 2. The City of Calgary, Gardening Grow How: Tips for Gardening Success 5. Learn to live with nature. Weeds and insects are part of nature and The City has also set up a hotline to answer any of your should be recognized as part of our ecological environment. gardening questions. Call 268-4678 (HORT). Or check the City's website: www.calgaryparks-rec.com or email specific gardening questions to [email protected] 21 Community Action

How to write an effective letter to your alderman v o 1. Keep the letter to one page. i c 2. Identify yourself and your concern in the first paragraph. i 3. Focus on 3 arguments that support your position and ask that action be taken. n 4. Personalize the letter, explain how the issue affects you, your family and your g community. 5. Keep the letter polite and respectful. s u 6. Ask for a reply (make sure to include your address on the envelope and letter). p 7. Before sending the letter, check the jurisdiction under which your concerns fall. p Send a copy of your letter to all the involved politicians. o r t Contact Your Council Representatives Mayor Dave Bronconier [email protected] (268-5622) Ward # 1 Dale Hodges [email protected] (268- 2445) 2 Gord Lowe [email protected] 3 John Schmal [email protected] 4 Bob Hawkesworth [email protected] 5 Ray Jones [email protected] 6 Craig Burrows [email protected] 7 Druh Farrell [email protected] 8 Madeleine King [email protected] 9 Joe Ceci [email protected] 10 Diane Danielson [email protected] 11 Barry Erskine [email protected] 12 Ric McIver [email protected] 13 Diane Colley-Urquhart [email protected] 14 Linda Fox-Mellway [email protected]

Unless noted otherwise, aldermen can be reached at 268-2430 (Office of the Alderman). To find out which Ward you are in contact the Office of the Alderman or go their website: http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/aldermanic/ward_offices/communities.html 22 Community Organizations

Horticulture Calgary Horticultural Society Alberta Native Plant Council http://www.calhort.org/ [email protected] http://www.anpc.ab.ca/ Phone (403) 287-3469 Fax (403) 287-6986 c The ANPC promotes knowledge and conservation of the native plants and Canada's oldest and largest gardening group is right here in Calgary. For all your o vegetation of Alberta. gardening questions in our Chinook climate - this is the place. The Calgary m Horticultural Society is also involved in community gardens. m u n Conservation/Environmental Groups i Alberta Wilderness Association Ducks Unlimited t http://albertawilderness.ca/ [email protected] http://www.ducks.ca/aboutdu/what.html [email protected] y Phone: (403)283-2025 Fax: (403)270-2743 Phone: 1(800) 665-DUCK (3825) Their mission is to defend wild Alberta through awareness and action. DU is dedicated to the conservation of wetlands for the benefit of North American o waterfowl, wildlife and people. DU works with landowners to protect and enhance r Bow River Basin Council wetlands damaged by human activities. g http://www.brbc.ab.ca/ [email protected] Friends of Fish Creek Park Preservation Society a Phone: (403) 254.3419 fax: (403) 254.3333 n To conduct activities for the purposes of protecting and improving the http://www.friendsoffishcreek.org/ [email protected] i waters of the Bow River Basin. The Bow River Basin Water Council is Phone: (403)238-3841 z involved in a range of projects in the Bow River Basin, including the Established to assist in the protection, preservation and enhancement of the a Parks Foundation, Calgary 's Shorekeepers Tour, a program aimed at diverse natural and human heritage which lies within Fish Creek Provincial Park. t instilling stewardship in residents living along the Bow River. Stewardship projects such as the Bow River Clean Up, Purge The Spurge (hand i pulling of noxious weeds made fun). Calgary Bird Banding Society o n Contact: Doug Collister Friends of Nose Hill Park s Phone/Fax: (403)240-2697 http://www.cadvision.com/davideo/FNH/ [email protected] The Friends of Nose Hill is an incorporated society dedicated to the preservation The Calgary Bird Banding Society is involved in helping to monitor and of Nose Hill Park for all users. conserve Canada's birds. Paskapoo Slopes Conservation Society Calgary Field Naturalist Society http://www.paskapoo.com/ [email protected] http://www.cadvision.com/cfns/ Phone: (403) 283-8553 Dedicated to the preservation of Calgary's Paskapoo slopes. CFNS has a number of groups with specialized interests that meet on a regular basis. These include groups interested in birds, botany, nature River Valleys Committee (RVC) photography and natural areas. They have monthly meetings with a guest http://www.parksfdncalgary.org speaker who speak about a wide range of nature topics. CFNS has also Phone: (403) 974-0753 published a number of natural history books, including guides to natural The mission of the RVC is to protect and enhance the natural, historical, and areas of the city. cultural values of Calgary's river valley's ecosystem. This is achieved by educating Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) - Calgary the public, promoting management, protection, and by supporting and developing http://www.cpawscalgary.org/ [email protected] compatible projects. Phone: (403) 232-6686 Fax: (403)232-6988 The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society runs a range of campaigns aiming to protect the biodiversity and wild landscapes in Southern Alberta. 23 Communitycontinued Organizations Conservation/Environmental Groups c Sierra Club - Calgary University of Calgary - Eco Club o http://prairie.sierraclub.ca/Chinook/index.htm [email protected] http://www.ucalgary.ca/ecoclub/home.html [email protected] m Phone (403) 201-0330 Focuses on reducing the University community's impact on the environment. m The Sierra Club, Chinook Group, has three campaigns underway: Current campaigns are alternative transportation and waste reduction. u 1. Alternatives to Pesticides 2. Smart Growth and 3. Waste Management n Weaselhead Glenmore Park Preservation Society Trout Unlimited i http://www.weaselhead.org/ [email protected] http://www.cadvision.com/bowriver/ [email protected] t Phone: (403) 252-6141 Phone: (403) 221-8360 y The Weaselhead Glenmore Park Preservation Society (WGPPS) exists to protect The Bow River Chapter actively pursues the Trout Unlimited Canada mission this unique natural area and its delicate ecosystem. Their detailed website provides to preserve and protect Canada's coldwater resource on the legendary Bow River. o information on projects in the area and on the species inhabiting the park. r g a n Environmental Education Centres i Calgary Zoo Botanical Garden and Prehistoric Park Fish Creek Environmental Learning Centre z htttp://www.calgaryzoo.ab.ca Phone: (403) 297-7827 Fax: (403) 297-7849 a Phone: (403) 232-9300 http://www.cd.gov.ab.ca/enjoying_alberta/parks/featured/fishcreek/fcelc.asp t The Zoo runs a range of public education, school programs and the Master [email protected] i Gardener program. The Fish Creek Environmental Learning Centre runs a host of education and o professional development courses. n Cross Conservation Area s www.crossconservation.org/ Inglewood Bird Sanctuary Phone: (403)931-9001 Fax: (403) 931-2726 Phone: (403) 269-6688 The Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area is a 4800 acre day use natural The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a 32 acre wildlife reserve in Calgary. This area located just south west of the city of Calgary in Alberta, Canada. The centre is a great opportunity for bird and plant viewing in the city: more conservation area is dedicated to protecting habitat and providing space for than 250 species of birds and 300 species of plants, plus several kinds of native species of wildlife; offering conservation education programs (particularly mammals, have been observed in the area. The Sanctuary also hosts a range to young people) without jeopardizing wildlife and habitat; and managing of educational programs for children and adults. human use of the Area.

Smart Growth Groups Building Stronger Communities Calgary Alternative Transportation Co-op contact [email protected] or call 266 - 0072 ext 260 for meeting place. http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/community/all/building/ http://www.catco-op.org/ Building Stronger Communities uses learning circles to encourage community Contact by phone or email Alison Kranias at 244-5051 or Marsha Staples at 802-8082 capacity. Learning circles provide opportunities for participants to come [email protected]. CATCO is a member-owned democratic co-operative, together and creatively problem solve around a particular issue. A range of incorporated to promote, develop and operate transportation alternatives in learning circles are run, including greening issues such as preserving park Calgary. Services provided by CATCO include car sharing, ride sharing and car pooling. space and community gardens. See their web page for more information. 24 Community Organizations continued Community Stewardship Groups Calgary Area Outdoor Council (CAOC) Go For Green c http://www.caoc.ab.ca [email protected] http://www.goforgreen.ca/ [email protected] o Phone: (403) 270-2262 Fax: (403) 270-3654 Alberta Representative: Fred Wilton m CAOC 's mission is to identify and address the interests and needs of the Phone: (780) 415-0267 Fax: (780) 427-5140 m outdoor community through representation and communication. CAOC is Go for Green is a national non-profit, charitable organization encouraging u an umbrella organization that represents organizations who share common Canadians to pursue healthy, outdoor physical activities while being good n interests in outdoor recreation, conservation, education, and leadership. environmental citizens. i t Child and Youth Friendly Calgary Land Stewardship Centre y http://www.childfriendly.ab.ca [email protected] http://www.landstewardship.org/frameset.htm [email protected] Phone: (403) 266-5448 The Land Stewardship Resource Centre is an electronic clearinghouse and free o Child and Youth Friendly Calgary is about giving all young people, children educational referral service. Designed for land stewards everywhere, it contains r and youth,the opportunity to get involved in our community. Child and a wealth of information about user-friendly, land-use conservation practices, g Youth Friendly Calgary is involved in a range of city planning projects and programs, agencies and referrals for hundreds of resources - from books and a human rights issues. videos to websites. n i Clean Calgary Pembina Institute z http://www.cleancalgary.com/ [email protected]. http://www.pembina.org/ [email protected] a Phone:(403) 230-1443 Fax:(403) 230-1458 Phone: (403) 269-3344 Fax: (403) 269-3377 t Clean Calgary Association aims to assist all Calgarians to lead an environmentally The Pembina Institute is an independent, citizen-based think tank, committed i friendly lifestyle. Clean Calgary hosts the annual sale of composters and to protecting the environment and to developing environmentally sound solutions o The Waste It Not Shop (WINshop) The WINshop aims to reduce the landfills to meet human needs. Program areas include eco-efficient communities, environmental n by redirecting usable discards from the manufacturing sector back into the education and eco-efficient technologies. s community for use. Materials are made available to the public at low cost. Sustainable Calgary http://www.telusplanet.net/public/sustcalg/ [email protected] Federation of Calgary Communities (FCC) Phone: (403) 270-0777 Fax: (403) 270-8672 http://www.calgarycommunities.com/ [email protected] Sustainable Calgary's goal is to promote, encourage and support community level Phone: (403) 244-4111 Fax: (403) 244-4129 actions and initiatives that move Calgary towards a sustainable future. Projects The FCC educates the community associations about the planning process, include the Calgary Green Map and the State of Our City Report (1998, 2001). issues and alternatives, and provides advice and guidance with planning New projects being undertaken are measuring Calgary's Ecological Footprint and issues. It ensures that a line of communication is made available for communities a community based marketing strategy. to voice their concerns and ideas, and represents the interests of new and existing communities on various city committees. They maintain a positive Tree Canada Foundation relationship with The City while acting as an advocate for city-wide community http://www.treecanada.ca concerns. Southern Alberta Technical Advisor: Art Peter [email protected] The Foundation provides education, technical assistance, resources and financial support through working partnerships to encourage Canadians to plant and care for trees in our urban and rural environment in an effort to help reduce the harmful effects of carbon dioxide emissions. 25 Funding Sources

Alberta's Centennial Tree Program Evergreen http://envweb.env.gov.ab.ca/env/forests/fpd/jfw/prov/Cent_tree.pdf Learning Ground Funding Program f Phone: (780) 427-4976 (Ron Stojanowski) www.evergreen.ca [email protected] Non-profit groups are eligible to receive centennial trees on public trees Phone: 1-888-426-3138 u (for example schools, community parks, nursing homes, museums, lodges.) n A maximum of 25 trees will be provided. Trees should provide one of the The 2002 national grant is open to any Ministry of Education recognized d following attributes: beautification, carbon dioxide reduction, restoration, school serving grades ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Schools may i reclamation, tells a story or recognizes our pioneers. apply for grants and awards between $1000 - $5000. Deadline is January 18. n g Alberta Ecotrust Foundation Green Streets Canada http://www.albertaecotrust.com [email protected] http://www.treecanada.ca/programs/greenstreets/index.htm S Phone: (403) 209 - 2245 or 1-800-465-2147 Initiative to enhance and expand municipal tree planting programs by providing o Fax: (403) 209-2086 additional funding to plant more trees. Deadline is December 7, a maximum of Funding is available for school yard naturalization projects, community $15,000 is available. u gardens, park restorations and more. Check their web site for information. r Deadlines March 15 and September 30. Grants available between $2,000 - $20,000. c Federation of Canadian Municipalities e Alberta Sport Recreation, Parks & Wildlife Foundation Green Municipal Enabling Fund s www.cd.gov.ab.ca/asrpwf/ http://www.fcm.ca/scep/support/GMEF/gmef_index.htm Phone: (403)297-2909 Fax: (403) 297-6669 Funds available is to Canadian municipalities and their public-sector or Contact the organization for funding deadlines. private sector partners. Applications are accepted each fall and spring to perform feasibility assessments on new projects that use sustainable technologies. GMEF The Calgary Foundation expects to support up to 150 studies a year to assess the technical, environmental and/or economic feasibility of innovative municipal projects. Grants cover up to The Neighbourhood Grants Program 50 percent of eligible costs to a maximum grant of $100,000. www.thecalgaryfoundation.org [email protected] Phone: (403) 264-1662 Fax: (403) 265-0152 The Neighbourhood Grants program funds projects that are: resident initiated Green Municipal Investment Fund and neighbourhood based, have a public benefit, respond to a need or focus http://www.fcm.ca/scep/support/GMIF/gmif_index.htm on an issue, can be maintained by the neighbourhood, and has a community GMIF is a $100 million permanent revolving fund that supports the implementation contribution of existing skills and resources. Deadlines ongoing. Generally of innovative environmental projects. Through GMIF, a municipal government or grants are around $5000 or less but there is no limit. its partner can borrow at competitive rates for up to 15 percent (exceptionally 25 percent) of capital costs. GMIF can also provide loan guarantees. Project payback Community Animation Program (CAP) periods may range from four to ten years. GMIF expects to support 15 to 20 projects http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hppb/regions/ab-nwt/program/e_cap_app.html a year. GMIF also provides up to $2 million a year towards grants for pilot projects Phone: (780) 495-7351 or (780) 951-8958 that are highly innovative. Up to $5000 is available to non-profit, non-government, community based organizations for taking action on health and environment issues. Parks Foundation, Calgary Partner Parks Fund and Marigold Playground Fund EcoAction http://www.parksfdn.com/ [email protected] http://www.ec.gc.ca/ecoaction/what_is_e.html Phone: (403) 974-0751 Fax: (403) 974-0758 The EcoAction Community Funding Program is an Environment Canada program The Parks Foundation offers grants for parks and playgrounds. The Foundation that provides financial support to community groups for projects that have strives to be responsive to the needs of all eligible organizations and considers measurable, positive impacts on the environment. Non-profit groups and requests of any amount. The deadlines for grant applications are February 1, organizations are eligible to apply to the Funding Program. Deadlines on February 1 and October 1. Range of funds available. June 1, and October 1. 26 Funding Sources continued

Shell Environment Fund The Tree Canada Foundation and Shell Canada www.shell.ca/code/values/environment/sef.html http://www.treecanada.ca/programs/school/index.htm [email protected] Fund requests under $500 are reviewed throughout the year. Requests over Phone: (613) 567-5545 FAX: (613) 567-5270 f $500 are reviewed on February 28 and September 15. The Greening Canada's School Ground Grants provide funds up to $5000 available u to schools pursuing schoolyard naturalization projects. Applications due: March 30, n June 1, Dec 15 d TD Friends of the Environment Foundation i http://www.td.com/fef/overview.html Wildlife Habitat Canada (WHC) n TD considers projects that meet the following criteria: protects and preserves http://www.whc.org/ [email protected] g the Canadian environment, assists young Canadians in understanding and Phone: (623) 722-2090 participating in environmental activities in local communities, enhances Wildlife Habitat Canada supports habitat conservation projects (wetland habitat S cooperation among environmental organizations. Applications are reviewed in particular). They fund projects in urban areas. Categories for funding include o throughout the year. habitat conservation, restoration and enhancement, communication and education, u research and graduate scholarship. WHC will contribute a maximum of 25 to 35% r of the overall project budget. c e s

27 Community Recreation Coordinators

Community Recreation Coordinators, working with Community Workers, c o liaise with community partners to ensure the development and availability m of a comprehensive continuum of recreation and social services for m all Calgarians. Five regions of Neighbourhood Services have been u established to better enable coordinators to respond to specific needs n within geographic areas. Services provided by Neighbourhood Services i t include support to not- for- profit's and community associations in y effective management of their resources, community assessment and mobilization and public information, education and advocacy. r e c North Area East Area r 905 - 30 Avenue NW 1011 - 52 Street S.E. e Phone: (403) 221-3955 Phone: (403) 221-3600 a Fax: 221-3982 Fax: (403)273-6373 t i West Area Central Core Area o 2539 - 33 Avenue S.W. n 332-42 Avenue SW Phone: (403) 221-4560 Phone: (403)216-5220 Fax: (403) 221-4581 c Fax: (403) 216-5207 o o South Area r 502 Heritage Drive S.W. d i Phone: (403) 221-3530 n Fax: (403)221-3568 a t For more information, please visit their website at: o r www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/community/all/cnsoffice.html or call s the office nearest you to find out who the Community Recreation Coordinator is for your neighbourhood.

28 Sources

Information on the previous pages of the Toolkit has been reprinted from the following sources: s Low Maintenance Landscaping Tree Planting o Getting Started: Urban Greening Principles: u Creating the Prairie Xeriscape (1997) State of the Environment Report (report) r Sara Williams. The City of Calgary c University of Saskatchewan Press Examples: e Birth Place Forest (web site) s Wildlife Habitat in Your Yard The City of Calgary Getting Started: The Inner City Tree Committee: Dr. Bev Sandalack Naturescape Alberta (2000) Myrna Pearman and Ted Pike Ecological Infrastructure Federation of Alberta Naturalists Urban Greening Principles And Getting Started: Community Gardens Urban Naturalization in Canada: A Policy and Program Guidebook (booklet) Urban Greening Principles and Evergreen Getting Started: How to Start a Community Garden (booklet) The Calgary Horticultural Society Pesticide Use Robert McClure Garden: Nita Ross The City of Calgary's Policies on Pesticide Use And IPM Plan Principles: Preserving Green Spaces Integrated Pest Management Plan (Report) Urban Greening Principles The City of Calgary and Getting Started: Getting Started: No Plot is Too Small (booklet) A Calgarian's Guide to a Healthy Yard (Booklet) Evergreen, Chris Manderson The Pesticide Education and Best Practices Sub-Committee Griffith Woods: Norm Harburn Schoolyard Naturalization Reviewing Development Permits Urban Greening Principles Urban Greening Principles: And Getting Started: Urban Naturalization in Canada: A Policy and Program All Hands in the Dirt: A Guide to Designing and Creating Natural School Grounds Guidebook (booklet) (booklet) Evergreen Evergreen Milton Williams Middle School: Ms. Sandra Neidermeier Getting Started: A Community's Guide to the Planning Process: Planning Smart Growth Education Program (booklet) Getting Started: The City of Calgary Planning and Building Department The Tool Kit for Community Energy Planning in British Columbia (booklet) and Federation of Calgary Communities BC Energy Aware Committee www.energyaware.bc.ca

29 Sources continued

The Planning Process Community Action s The Planning Hierarchy: How to write an effective letter to your alderman: o A Community's Guide to the Planning Process: A Handbook for Conserving Nature in the Edmonton u region: a vision for the future (booklet) r Planning Education Program (booklet) c The City of Calgary Planning and Building Department Kristen Van Der Meer e and Federation of Calgary Communities Edmonton Natural History Club s Getting Started: Municipal Sustainable Practices Matrix (website) Conference Sponsors www.climatechangesolutions.com/english/municipal/tools/matrix.htm Breaking Ground conference website: www.breakinggroundcalgary.org/sponsorsApr8.htm/ Community Recreation Coordinators Map and text is reprinted from: Leisure Development and Neighbourhood Services (website) The City of Calgary http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/community/all/cnsoffice.html

30 All information and references are accurate to May 1,2002. Conference Sponsors

Breaking Ground Conference “Creating A Greener, Healthier City” Thanks the following sponsors for their generosity & support: c o Sponsorship Categories n f PLATINUM LEAF – MAJOR PARTNERS e Evergreen r Parks Foundation, Calgary e Calgary Area Outdoor Council n The Calgary Foundation c City of Calgary Parks e City of Calgary Planning & Transportation Policy s The Evergreen Canada Initiative is sponsored by: p Suncor Energy Foundation o Toyota n The Globe and Mail s Home & Garden Television o Canadian Gardening r s $2500 - $ 4999 GOLD LEAF Samuel and Saidye Bronfman Family Foundation Calgary Zoo Devonian Gardens University of Calgary

$1000 - $2499 S I L VER LEAF Apache Superior Printing Ltd. Allan Markin Alberta Real Estate Foundation Grassroots N.W. - Environmental Awareness Society

Under $1000 GREEN LEAF Greystone Environmental Debbie Little – Web Development Calgary Co-operative Association Ltd Golden Acres Garden Sentre