The Integrated Stormwater Management Process in British Columbia. Case Study: Ocean Bluff and Chantrell Creek Drainage Areas in the City of Surrey

This paper summarizes the Integrated Stormwater Management process that municipalities, part of Metro Vancouver Regional District, are mandated to complete by 2014. A case study is presented describing findings from the various stages and linkages between aquatic habitat, benthic invertebrates, geomorphology, land use planning and stormwater management. Projects typically include four stages: reconnaissance, visioning, management model and adaptive management and monitoring. During the reconnaissance phase a thorough inspection of the watershed is completed including aquatic and terrestrial habitat, land use planning, stream erosion and sedimentation, and an assessment of the drainage system. For the Ocean Bluff and Chantrell Creek a PCSWMM model of the drainage system was developed and calibrated using available rainfall and flow monitoring data. The model was then used to assess the hydraulic capacity of the system. The visioning stage is the process of establishing the desired conditions for the watershed on the short, medium and long term. Typically a consultation process is part of this exercise. The development of the management model is the elaboration of specific projects and management actions required in order to achieve the vision. The fourth stage includes the development of a monitoring program to ensure that the implemented projects are achieving the desired objectives. This also include an adaptive management process whereby measures are adopted where needed.