Clean energy generation is a growing opportunity for municipalities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower long-term operating costs and improve energy resilience. By investing in renewable energy—such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass and geothermal—municipalities can advance their climate goals while strengthening local energy security.

However, successful projects begin with the basics. Our guide encourages decision-makers to first reduce energy use and maximize efficiency—especially through no- and low-cost measures. This strategic approach, following the Energy Hierarchy framework, ensures renewables are introduced at the right time for maximum benefit.

When you're ready to pursue renewable energy solutions, this guide will help you build a strong business case. It highlights key considerations, including financial viability, stakeholder engagement and grant opportunities.

You'll also find real-world examples of Alberta municipalities that have implemented renewable energy systems—along with insights into how they funded their projects.

In this guide, you'll find:

• an overview of the Energy Hierarchy framework
• what to include in a comprehensive business case
• types of renewable energy systems
• funding sources and grant opportunities in Alberta

Download the guide.

Does your community have a plan to care for its newly planted trees? The long-term health and sustainability of your community’s urban forests depend on a well-executed tree maintenance and monitoring plan. A strong plan will support healthy tree growth, track progress and respond to challenges over time.  

Use this template to create a tree maintenance and monitoring plan. You’ll document maintenance activities, collect data on your planting sites or species, define and measure and the success of your urban forestry project, and much more.  

Fill the template to start your plan 

This template will guide you through the process of developing a tree maintenance and monitoring plan.  

This includes:

• Planning for long-term care: outline how you will maintain trees over time and carry out reactive or unplanned maintenance.  
• Tracking and adapting over time: identify how you will monitor tree health, survival and site conditions, and use that information to respond to issues such as stress, pests, disease or extreme weather.
• Clarifying roles and responsibilities: define who will carry out maintenance and monitoring activities, how often they will occur, and how data will be stored and used to inform future maintenance or adaptive management activities.  

Download the template 

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This resource was created in partnership by Tree Canada and FCM’s Green Municipal Fund (GMF) for the Growing Canada’s Community Canopies initiative, which is delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and funded by the Government of Canada.

Energy efficiency isn’t just a technical upgrade, it’s a strategic investment in long-term affordability, resident well-being and climate resilience. For affordable housing providers, integrating energy-efficient measures into new builds or retrofit projects can raise questions about upfront costs and planning complexity. But the benefits are clear: lower operating costs, healthier indoor environments and improved comfort for residents.

If you represent a not-for-profit organization, housing co-operative or municipal authority engaged in affordable housing, this factsheet can help you build a compelling case for energy efficiency that resonates with your board and funders. By highlighting the financial, social and environmental returns early in the planning phase, you can strengthen support for including energy efficiency measures in your capital projects and ensure your housing investments deliver lasting value.

Review the information below to learn how to make the case to your board and funders and explore next steps for integrating energy efficiency into your buildings.
 

Be informed

 Efficient buildings lower operating costs

• Make it clear that a more efficient building will have lower ongoing operating costs for heating fuel and electricity.
   
• Implementing energy conservation measures (ECM) that reduce electricity and fuel usage will save you money on your energy bills. ECMs such as tuning up old equipment, purchasing higher-quality equipment and lowering equipment usage will help lower maintenance costs.
   
  • Explore GMF's Understanding energy efficiency guide for a comprehensive look into energy conservation measures to boost energy efficiency.
     
• Lower energy consumption also makes your ongoing expenses more predictable, as you will be less affected by energy cost increases and sudden price shocks. This stabilizes your budget and the rent you charge to residents. As prices increase, a more efficient building will be more competitive in the market. Run your business case by inputting several different values for annual fuel escalation costs to evaluate this risk.
   
• Explore real-world examples:

Case study: Pine Tree Park

The Pine Tree Park retrofit in Cape Breton, NS, demonstrates how deep energy upgrades and solar installations can significantly reduce operating costs. After replacing oil furnaces with high-efficiency heat pumps and installing a 700kW solar array, residents saw their monthly utility bills drop by approximately $200, translating to an annual savings of about $2,500 per household.

Case study: Heartland Housing Foundation

The Heartland Housing Foundation’s new net-zero affordable housing complex in Fort Saskatchewan, AB, showcases how smart design can drastically reduce operating costs. This 83-unit new build uses solar panels, electric HVAC systems, and a high-performance building envelope so that the housing units achieve net-zero energy by generating as much energy as they consume.

Case study: Sundance Housing Co-operative

The Sundance Housing Co-operative in Edmonton, AB, completed Canada’s largest panelized deep energy retrofit to eliminate natural gas use in its 59-unit townhouse complex. By installing prefabricated wall panels, upgrading insulation, replacing windows and doors, and adding electric heat pumps and rooftop solar panels, the co-op reduced energy consumption by up to 84 percent. Thanks to the reduction in externally supplied energy the co-op hopes to save members up to $100,000 cumulatively each year. Residents now enjoy quieter, more comfortable homes while preventing 330 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

To explore projects in your region, consult GMF's project database.  

• For more specific numbers, have an energy modeler and cost consultant on your design team run an analysis that’s specific to your building, location, and construction/utility costs. If there are other efficient or net-zero buildings in your area, you can talk to their operators to see how their costs have compared to a more conventional building.

Efficient buildings cut emissions and risk

• The building and equipment choices you make today can either lock in future risk or build long-term resilience and affordability.
   
• Buildings that rely on fossil fuels are more likely to face rising costs and uncertainty in the future due to evolving regulations and market pressure. By improving energy efficiency and/or switching to technologies like heat pumps, housing providers can reduce these risks and make their buildings more stable and affordable over time.
   
• Emitting greenhouse gases is likely to become less politically and publicly acceptable over time as the effects of climate change become more severe. Building efficiently now is cheaper than retrofitting later.

Higher building performance unlocks funding opportunities

• Improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions is a condition of obtaining approval for some funding or loan programs. In some cases, exceeding the minimum requirements makes it more likely that your project will be approved quickly.
   
• Learn about additional funding sources to support your affordable housing project through GMF's funders list for sustainable affordable housing.

Use energy efficiency to engage and empower residents

• By minimizing the energy use under your control as a building operator (e.g. heating, cooling, ventilation, common area lighting) you set a good example for your residents. This can encourage them to minimize the energy use within their control (e.g. lighting, plug-in appliances, hot water).
   
• If you have a building energy monitoring system (BEMS) you can even install a display in the lobby that encourages efficient behaviours by showing current and historical energy use. If you don’t have a BEMS, consider including it in your design.
   
• Learn more about how a building energy monitoring system can lower costs and emissions through this GMF factsheet: Get started on energy monitoring.

Design choices build community trust

• Improving energy efficiency shows you care about your surroundings and may make your project more acceptable to neighbours, reducing public opposition and making project approval from local authorities more likely.
   
• Energy-efficient new builds and deeply retrofitted homes help communities create dignified, comfortable living spaces that residents feel proud to call their own.
   
  • In addition to the benefits of energy savings, these design choices foster a sense of belonging and pride among residents, as one resident shared as part of GMF’s resident stories article series: “This place is my favourite out of everywhere I’ve lived. It’s safe, it’s beautiful, and it feels like home.” (Rossland Yards: Building stability and a sense of home) 

Efficient buildings support climate resilience and occupants’ well-being

• More efficient buildings also have features that can improve occupants’ well-being, such as better thermal comfort, indoor air quality and access to natural lighting.
   
• Efficient buildings tend to be more resilient to extreme weather events and other effects of climate change. For example, a well-insulated building will keep occupants warm in a winter power outage for much longer. A building with good passive solar shading will keep its occupants’ cooler in case of a summer outage.

Local sourcing strengthens regional economies

• Local sourcing helps regional economies by keeping money within the community, supporting local fuel harvesting and processing jobs and reducing dependence on imported conventional fuels, when these resources are used sustainably and are locally available.

Make your case

Next steps

This resource was created with contributions from the Rural Development Network.

Permeable pavements are an engineered approach to nature-based solutions. These surfaces allow stormwater to pass through the pavement into the underlying ground, reducing runoff and flood risk. They increase resilience by managing stormwater locally, improving water quality and decreasing stress on drainage infrastructure. For small and rural communities, permeable pavements provide a low-maintenance flood resilience strategy for roads, sidewalks, parking areas and public spaces.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver permeable pavement projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Assess site suitability: Consider traffic volume, presence of utilities, slope, drainage and soil infiltration rates
• Consider the appropriate pavement surface type: Select the most suitable surface out of porous asphalt, pervious concrete or permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP)
• Get your paperwork in order: Seek required permits and approvals from environmental and municipal authorities

Best practices for design and delivery

• Take protective measures during installation: Preserve surface pore space during installation by minimizing compaction and restricting traffic for 24–48 hours post-installation
• Install a defensive layer: Incorporate underdrains or liners where soils have low infiltration to protect groundwater and utilities
• Design for winter¹ climates: Apply larger aggregates in pervious concrete to reduce freeze–thaw damage in cold climates; prevent clogging by choosing clean gravel instead of sand or salt for winter conditions
• Conduct routine maintenance²: Be consistent with sweeping and vacuuming to remove surface debris, and pressure washing for persistent clogging, to maintain the integrity of the pavement

Equity and community considerations

• Design pedestrian paths and parking areas to be accessible: Avoid uneven settlement of the pavement surface and limit large gaps, using contrasting colours to facilitate access for wheelchair users and people with mobility aids
• Consider safety in design: Ensure materials offer sufficient traction to avoid slips and falls, especially for older adults and people with mobility challenges
• Prioritize installation in areas with the greatest need: Reduce flood risk and polluted runoff in neighbourhoods with inadequate or aging stormwater systems, including low-income areas experiencing disproportionate impacts.

Costing and budgeting information

Permeable pavement projects can cost $50–$150 per square metre depending on site conditions and the permeable system chosen. Additional costs can arise when deeper bases, underdrains or liners are required to meet infiltration or structural needs.

Typical cost drivers include materials, subgrade preparation, drainage design and maintenance.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Prioritize small-scale pilot areas with lower costs before investing in larger deployment
• Plan for regular maintenance to prevent clogging and extend lifespan
• Enlist the help of residents and volunteer groups for routine maintenance (e.g., Adopt a Street programs), such as sweeping and removing trash and weeds

Case studies and lessons learned

Tailoring permeable pavement materials to site conditions (Vaughan, ON, 2015)

Researchers at the University of Guelph, in collaboration with the Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program (STEP), monitored three permeable pavement types (pervious concrete and two types of permeable interlocking concrete pavers) in a parking lot to evaluate long-term runoff reduction, water quality improvements and thermal effects compared with traditional asphalt. Over three years, researchers assessed the performance and durability of each material under a variety of conditions, including winter weather and different maintenance practices.

The results revealed a variety of insights. For example, permeable interlocking concrete pavers require more frequent cleaning while pervious concretes may leach materials into stormwater outflow that are undesirable for aquatic ecosystems.

Lesson learned: Give careful consideration to the type of permeable pavement material selected for the project site. A thorough evaluation of the site’s drainage patterns, traffic use, surrounding vegetation, temperature extremes and cleaning practices can help communities determine the most appropriate materials for their context. This will enhance the pavement’s performance and lifespan.

Public engagement drives behavioural change for green infrastructure (Sackville, NB, 2024)

A de-paving project led by EOS Eco-Energy, a local non-profit, transformed a section of asphalt measuring 30 square metres into a permeable pavement area in a parking lot at a park. This allowed rainwater to infiltrate naturally while filtering pollutants before they could reach local waterways.

Leading up to and during the project, EOS implemented a communications strategy to educate the public and local municipalities about de-paving, stormwater management and low-impact development practices. The strategy combined media outreach, site tours, social media campaigns (#RainAsAResource) and hands-on workshops.

Lesson learned: Integrating public outreach and education into infrastructure projects can catalyze community awareness, behavioural change and adoption of green infrastructure practices, amplifying the impact of small-scale pilot projects beyond their physical footprint.

Revitalizing underused spaces through permeable surfaces (London, ON, 2024)

Fanshawe College transformed its underused Arts Courtyard by removing 118 square metres of asphalt and creating a naturalized area with permeable surfaces and native plantings, including a rain and pollinator garden. The college recycled the removed asphalt and incorporated permeable materials made from recycled tires. The project reduced runoff, improved stormwater infiltration and restored habitat for native wildlife.

Lesson learned: De-paving and greening neglected or underutilized areas can simultaneously restore natural hydrology, enhance biodiversity, and create community spaces that are accessible and functional. This demonstrates revitalization’s value in terms of both ecological and social benefits.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Permeable pavement site sustainability evaluation tool (Applied Research Associates) –This Excel-based tool helps users evaluate and rank up to six potential sites for permeable pavement based on feasibility and suitability. The tool generates scores categorizing sites as amenable, marginal or unsuitable, supporting informed decision-making for project scoping.

Design guidelines for low-impact development permeable pavement (City of Calgary) –This technical guidance document supports the design of permeable pavement systems for residential and commercial developments. Appendix A includes a detailed design checklist covering site feasibility, system selection, hydrology and structural design. Appendix B provides an example.

Stormwater manual (City of Seattle) – Appendix G of this manual provides technical guidance on inspection, maintenance and operational requirements for permeable pavement. It outlines recommended inspection frequency, common defects, maintenance triggers and expected outcomes to ensure long-term performance of permeable pavement..

Explore more flood resilience activities

Learn about other flood resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Wetland restoration or construction
• Stormwater ponds

Return to the Flood Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Heat Resilience Toolkit
• Wildfire Resilience Toolkit
• Community Facilities Toolkit

Glossary

Aggregate: Crushed stone or gravel used in the base or surface of permeable pavements to provide structural support and facilitate water infiltration

Drainage: The controlled movement of stormwater through and away from a site, often managed through permeable pavement layers, underdrains or surface channels

Hydrology: The study of water movement, distribution and quality in a given area, including rainfall, runoff and groundwater flow

Permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP): A type of pavement made of interlocking blocks with void spaces that allow water to infiltrate, often filled with gravel or soil

Permeable pavements: Engineered surfaces designed to allow stormwater to pass through, reducing runoff and flood risk while improving water quality

Pervious concrete: Concrete mix with reduced fine aggregates to create a porous matrix that allows water infiltration

Porous asphalt: Asphalt mix with reduced fine aggregates to allow water to pass through the surface into underlying layers

Runoff: Water that flows over surfaces instead of infiltrating, often carrying pollutants into stormwater systems or natural waterways

Soil infiltration rate: The speed at which water can soak into the soil, influencing how quickly permeable pavements can drain stormwater

Stormwater management: Practices that control the quantity and quality of runoff from rain or snow, often to reduce flooding and improve water quality

Subgrade: The native soil or prepared layer beneath the pavement base that provides structural support for the pavement system

Surface pore space: The small voids or openings on the pavement surface that allow water to pass through into underlying layers

Underdrains: Perforated pipes installed beneath permeable pavements to facilitate drainage where soils have low infiltration rates or where water must be directed to an outlet to the underlying ground, reducing runoff and flood risk. They increase resilience by managing stormwater locally, improving water quality and decreasing stress on drainage infrastructure. For small and rural communities, permeable pavements provide a low-maintenance flood resilience strategy for roads, sidewalks, parking areas and public spaces.

Select resources

1. LID - Permeable Pavements Factsheet

2. Permeable-Pavement-Fact-Sheet.pdf

Stormwater ponds temporarily or permanently hold excess water during heavy rainfall, reducing flooding, erosion, and downstream damage. They increase resilience by controlling stormwater flows, improving water quality, and protecting critical infrastructure. For small and rural communities, stormwater ponds provide a cost-effective way to manage flood risk while supporting community safety and long-term planning.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver stormwater pond projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Identify suitable locations: Consider topography, floodplain maps and existing drainage patterns when making decisions about the project site
• Understand your needs: Determine whether a detention (dry) or retention (wet) pond is most appropriate for the site and your objectives
• Centre local priorities: Engage with Indigenous communities, local organizations and landowners to integrate local knowledge and values
• Assess the site: Conduct soil, hydrology and vegetation assessments to guide pond design
• Get your paperwork in order: Seek required permits and approvals from environmental and municipal authorities

Best practices for design and delivery

• Design multi-use spaces: Consider whether ponds could serve as public parks for recreational use during dry periods
• Find secondary stormwater uses: Separate stormwater from agricultural or contaminated runoff to protect water quality and allow for potential irrigation use
• Practice regular maintenance: Extend the life of the pond by being consistent in removing invasive plants, clearing trash and debris, and stabilizing slopes to prevent erosion
• Consider ecosystem benefits: Naturalize the shoreline with a vegetation buffer to improve local habitat, stabilize the banks and enhance the area’s natural beauty

Equity and community considerations

• Implement safety measures: Protect people from accidental injury or drowning by implementing fencing, barriers, gentle grading or signage (this is especially important during winter months when snow may hide unstable pond ice)
• Educate pet owners: Discourage owners from allowing pets to swim or drink from stormwater ponds located in or near off-leash dog parks; ensure owners are aware of the potentially deadly risks posed by strong drain currents and bacteria
• Engage farmers and landowners early: Minimize negative impacts and maximize benefits on livelihoods and property for stormwater ponds near residential and agricultural areas

Costing and budgeting information

Stormwater pond projects can cost $35,000–$75,000 per acre of impervious surface treated for wet ponds. Costs for dry ponds¹ vary by scale and design complexity.

Typical cost drivers include excavation, liner materials, and building outlet structures.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Transplant nearby native plants to reduce landscaping expenses
• Leverage community volunteers for planting and monitoring efforts; provide honoraria where appropriate, particularly for small organizations or equity-deserving communities
• Select sites with natural depressions or existing wetland features to minimize excavation needs

Case studies and lessons learned

Detention pond upgrade improves stormwater management and ecological value (Chilliwack, BC, 2024)

The City of Chilliwack completed improvements to the Teskey detention pond, originally built in 1997, to better manage stormwater from increased development in the area. The project included expanding and deepening the pond, upgrading outlet control structures, planting native species to enhance ecological function, and adding trails and access points for community use.

Lesson learned: Retrofitting existing detention ponds can simultaneously reduce flooding, improve stormwater management, and enhance ecological and recreational benefits. This highlights the value of multi-functional infrastructure upgrades in small communities.

Phased stormwater management enhances flood resilience while planning for future capacity (Town of Sackville, NB, 2019)

Following multiple flooding events, the Town of Sackville constructed a naturalized stormwater pond to store approximately 40,000 cubic metres of runoff and protect homes, businesses and infrastructure in the Lorne Street area. The project was implemented in phases, including road reconstruction, upgraded stormwater and sanitary infrastructure, and the first retention pond, with future plans to add a second pond for additional storage. Community workshops and technical studies informed the design to balance flood risk reduction, ecosystem benefits and long-term resilience.

Lesson learned: Phased implementation allows small communities to incrementally increase resilience as funding becomes available. Real-world testing, such as Sackville’s heavy rainstorm in August 2021, can validate infrastructure performance and reinforce the need for additional capacity in subsequent project phases.

Combining stormwater management with public recreation in sponge parks (Montreal, QC, 2020)

The City of Montreal redeveloped a former marshalling yard into Pierre-Dansereau Park, creating a network of public spaces with integrated stormwater retention. The project included a rain garden, a drainage-adapted playground, abundant native vegetation, and pedestrian walkways. These features allow stormwater to be managed ecologically while providing recreational and community amenities. Community members were actively engaged in the design process, providing input on layout and features.

Lesson learned: Thoughtful, multi-functional design can simultaneously manage stormwater, enhance biodiversity and provide accessible recreational spaces. Early and ongoing community engagement is key to achieving solutions that are both functional and widely supported.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Water balance model online (Partnership for Water Sustainability in B.C.) – A scenario comparison and decision support tool that helps users model stormwater runoff, rainwater capture and green infrastructure performance at the site and watershed scale. The tool simulates how rainfall moves through surface, interflow and groundwater pathways, enabling planners to design interventions that slow, spread and absorb runoff to protect or restore stream health.

Pond maintenance inspection checklist (Toronto and Region Conservation) – Appendix B of this document provides a detailed inspection form for maintenance and repair of various storm pond components. These include drain valves, vegetation, sediment management, debris obstruction and signage.

Risk management considerations for storm water ponds (Intact Public Entities Inc.) – A guidance resource outlining safety, access control and hazard mitigation measures for municipal stormwater management ponds. It includes recommendations for fencing, signage, vegetation and life-saving equipment.

Explore more flood resilience activities

Learn about other flood resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Wetland restoration or construction
• Permeable pavements

Return to the Flood Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities 

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Heat Resilience Toolkit
• Wildfire Resilience Toolkit
• Community Facilities Toolkit

Glossary

Detention pond: A type of stormwater pond that temporarily holds stormwater and releases it slowly to reduce downstream flooding

Floodplain: Low-lying land adjacent to a river or stream that is prone to flooding during high water events

Hydrology: The study of water movement, distribution and quality in a given area, including rainfall, runoff and groundwater flow

Impervious surface: A surface that prevents water from infiltrating the ground, such as pavement, rooftops or concrete

Interflow: Shallow, horizontal movement of water through soil before it reaches streams or rivers

Outlet structure: Engineered feature that controls water discharge from a stormwater pond

Retention pond: A type of stormwater pond that maintains a permanent pool of water while also storing additional stormwater during heavy rainfall

Runoff: Water from precipitation that flows over land surfaces toward streams, rivers or stormwater systems

Sediment management: Practices to remove, control or treat sediment accumulation in stormwater ponds to maintain function and water quality

Stormwater pond: An engineered pond designed to store and manage excess rainwater or runoff to reduce flooding, erosion and water quality impacts

Select resources

1. Dry Detention Ponds | Climate Insight

Wetland restoration or construction involves creating or rehabilitating wetland areas to manage stormwater, absorb floodwaters and improve water quality. These projects increase community resilience by reducing downstream flooding, supporting biodiversity and providing natural buffers against extreme weather events. In small and rural communities, wetlands offer a low-cost, multi-functional solution that protects critical infrastructure, agricultural lands and local ecosystems.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver wetland restoration or construction projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Identify potential wetland sites: Use local floodplain and watershed maps to inform decision-making
• Centre local priorities: Engage with Indigenous communities, local organizations and landowners to integrate local knowledge and values
• Conduct site assessments: Determine soil, hydrology and vegetation conditions
• Define project objectives: Set clear goals, such as flood risk reduction, water quality improvement and habitat restoration
• Get your paperwork in order: Seek required permits and approvals from environmental and municipal authorities

Best practices for design and delivery

• Use native plant species: Select species suited to local conditions to improve ecosystem resilience and reduce maintenance needs
• Minimize disturbance: Limit impacts during construction and prevent sediment runoff into adjacent waterways
• Leverage resources across organizations: Coordinate with local agencies for ongoing maintenance and ecological monitoring
• Incorporate an educational component: Raise awareness about wetland functions, flood mitigation and ecological benefits

Equity and community considerations

• Prioritize engagement with Indigenous communities: Consult with local First Nations to respect traditional land use and knowledge and to gain a better understanding of the project site
• Engage farmers early in planning: Consider impacts of the project on agricultural lands and livelihoods
• Balance accessibility with safety: Consider designing wetlands to support community recreation and public interaction while minimizing risks

Costing and budgeting information

Wetland restoration and construction projects can cost $50–$200 per square metre depending on site size, conditions¹ and complexity.

Typical cost drivers include excavation, liner materials, vegetation and maintenance.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Transplant nearby native plants to reduce landscaping expenses
• Leverage community volunteers for planting and monitoring efforts; provide honoraria where appropriate, particularly for small organizations or equity-deserving communities
• Select sites² with natural depressions or existing wetland features to minimize excavation needs

Case studies and lessons learned

Collaborative planning to restore tidal wetland and reduce flood risk (Truro, NS, 2021)

The Nova Scotia government, in collaboration with researchers, industry partners, local landowners and Millbrook First Nation, breached sections of an existing dyke along the Salmon and North rivers to allow tidal waters to return to the floodplain, gradually restoring the area to a tidal wetland ecosystem. The project included channel excavation, construction of new dykes where necessary, and extensive pre- and post-restoration monitoring.

Lesson learned: Coordinated planning across multiple stakeholders, including government, researchers, Indigenous communities and local landowners, ensures that flood risk reduction, ecosystem restoration and community priorities are successfully integrated.

Constructed wetland delivers environmental, social and economic benefits (Loyalist Township, ON, 2020)

To address elevated pH levels in the effluent from the Amherstview Water Pollution Control Plant, Loyalist Township built a constructed wetland using locally available cattails to naturally treat wastewater. Beyond improving water quality, the wetland reduces flood risk, provides habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds, creates accessible green space for residents, and reduces long-term operating costs (compared with mechanical UV treatment).

Lesson learned: Constructed wetlands can simultaneously reduce flood risk, improve water quality, create habitat, provide community green space, and lower operating costs. This demonstrates the value of multi-benefit nature-based solutions.

Wetland restoration transforms schoolyard into habitat and outdoor classroom (Quadra Island, BC, 2022)

Quadra Island Elementary School, in partnership with the B.C. Wildlife Federation, School District 72, and the We Wai Kai First Nation, restored a historic wetland on the school’s sports field to improve stormwater management and create habitat for native plants and animals. The project included excavation of shallow basins, native plantings funded by an EcoAction grant and volunteer support from local community members.

Lesson learned: Wetland projects can go beyond simple community engagement by providing opportunities for residents to play active roles throughout the project’s delivery. Thoughtful consideration of education and hands-on learning experiences, especially for youth, can foster a sense of ownership and community pride.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Road impact wetland health assessment (RIWHA) tool (B.C. Wildlife Federation) – This field-based assessment tool helps identify and prioritize wetlands impacted by roads and linear infrastructure, combining scientific indicators with local knowledge. A separate, streamlined version of the tool supports fieldwork in remote areas.

Compendium of resources (Invasive Species Centre) – Invasive species removal can be a co-benefit in a wetland restoration process. This comprehensive resource summarizes invasive species education, outreach and management tools, organized by species and pathway of spread. It helps agencies and community groups coordinate communications, adopt best practices and integrate materials into their own programs.

Biodiversity mapping and assessment tool (Ducks Unlimited Canada) – This tool identifies biodiversity hotspots to guide conservation and restoration efforts. The public version currently provides data for the Prairie Ecozone, showing predicted species richness of amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles. A similar tool is being developed for Eastern Canada.

Explore more flood resilience activities

Learn about other flood resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Stormwater ponds
• Permeable pavements

Return to the Flood Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Heat Resilience Toolkit
• Wildfire Resilience Toolkit
• Community Facilities Toolkit

Glossary

Biodiversity hotspot: An area with high species richness or abundance that is a priority for conservation and restoration efforts

Constructed wetland: A human-made wetland designed to mimic natural processes for purposes such as flood control, water treatment and habitat creation

Floodplain: Low-lying land adjacent to a river or stream that is prone to flooding during high water events

Invasive species: Non-native plants or animals that can cause ecological or economic harm in new environments

Stormwater management: Practices that control the quantity and quality of runoff from rain or snow, often to reduce flooding and improve water quality

Tidal wetland: Wetlands influenced by tidal movements, providing habitat and natural flood mitigation in coastal areas

Wetland: An area of land that is saturated with water either permanently or seasonally, supporting aquatic plants and wildlife

Select resources

1. Landowners-Guide-Wetland-Restoration-Ontario-2022.pdf

2.Wetland Vulnerability Metrics as a Rapid Indicator in Identifying Nature-Based Solutions to Mitigate Coastal Flooding