Evolution of Low Impact Development in Calgary, Alberta
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2015-07-09
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Abstract
Calgary is a leading Alberta municipality in low impact development (LID). This thesis provides a discussion and analysis of Calgary’s transition to the LID approach to stormwater management. The drivers of change that preceded the introduction of LID to Calgary are examined. Research includes in-depth assessment of interwoven federal, provincial, regional and municipal regulatory and policy aspects, as well as interviews with practicing stormwater management professionals.
The natural hydrological regime (created by Calgary's cold, semi-arid climate, Chinooks, post-glacial topography and dense clay soils) relies on evaporation and evapotranspiration, rather than infiltration for pre-development stormwater processes. The goal of the city’s Stormwater Management Strategy is to improve post-development stormwater quality and minimize morphological impact on the receiving waters. In April 2014, Calgary adopted Interim Stormwater Targets based on pre-development peak and annual volume discharge per unit area. LID remains an evolving field, with many challenges yet to be overcome.
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Ryan, S. E. (2015). Evolution of Low Impact Development in Calgary, Alberta (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/26007