52 Weeks 52 Actions

In 2011, the CVRD Board adopted a corporate energy plan to help reduce corporate greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). In 2023, the CVRD Board approved an updated Corporate Energy and Emissions Plan that aligns GHG emission reduction targets with Provincial, Federal and Global requirements.

The goals of the new Corporate Energy and Emissions Plan are to:

• Adopt a net-zero corporate emissions target by 2050
• Aggressively work towards reducing corporate GHG emissions as the primary means of taking action, with a focus on phasing out corporate fossil fuel use.

The CVRD provides a variety of granting opportunities to non-profit and charitable organizations within the community. This includes Community Grants for the Electoral Areas, Regional Community Grants (formerly known as Grant-in-aid), One-Time Community Grants for Recreation, Arts and Culture, and a number of grants where the sole purpose is to annually provide financial contributions to nonprofit organizations that have demonstrated community benefit and need. In 2022, the CVRD provided:

• 28 Rural Community Grants, distributing a total of $143, 273.  
• 22 Recreation Grants, distributing a total of $554,000
• 10 Arts and Culture Grants, distributing a total of $107,370

The deadline for applying is March 1 of the calendar year. Applications for grants can be found on the Community Grants and Rebates page.

 

The Bates Road parking lot at Seal Bay Nature Park needed to be improved for public safety. More parking space and a safer single entry/exit point loop was desired to improve safety and accessibility for this much loved and frequently used park. Park staff looked at a few different options to reconfigure the parking area and opted for a plan with the lowest ecological impacts. The design was developed by CVRD parks staff and supported by a surveyor, engineer, biologist and arborist to review options for increasing the available parking while being sensitive to the park environment. This work included an environmental report by a biologist and arborist as well as provincial approvals from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. The new parking loop was designed to keep as many of the large trees as possible and minimize the tree impacts. It was determined that 49 second growth trees needed to be removed. Many of the trees removed were smaller diameter or trees that were hazardous or had structural defects. The CVRD committed to planting two trees for every tree cut down. In addition, sword ferns were salvaged and used elsewhere in the park. To learn more about this visit the Seal Bay Parking Improvements project page.

Connecting with residents of the Electoral Areas is a priority. We use an interactive public engagement tool called ConnectCVRD to help keep residents informed and the lines of communication open. A special project page called, Rural Community Updates was conceived to ensure that residents of the Electoral Areas had a space where they would be able to find information pertaining specifically to their areas and a forum for connecting to elected officials. This digital tool is designed to give residents flexibility and adapt to their comfort level. Residents can:

• Sign-up or Register which enables access to the interactive tools Questions and Ideas, and the choice to receive a bi-annual newsletter directly via email.
• View the page as a Visitor and review or download past editions of newsletters and read through previously posted News Feed items, Questions and review proposed Ideas.

On the Rural Community Updates page, Electoral Area Directors direct email and phone numbers are provided, as well as a newsfeed where Regional District information is posted regularly.

We encourage registration. Registering enables access to tools which can help answer questions and spark conversation, but it is not required.



We encourage all Comox Valley residents to explore all ConnectCVRD projects to find information about other ongoing public engagements in the CVRD.

Invasive plants (noxious weeds) are typically non-native plants which have been introduced to our region. Without their natural insect predators or plant pathogens, they can thrive a little too well, and our native species can suffer as a result. This is a serious issue. We need our native plants to succeed to maintain balanced eco-systems and habitats. Curbing the spread of invasive plants is a community effort. The CVRD has compiled resources and ways in which community members can help, including how to prevent the spread, planting alternatives, and links to community organizations who are proactively working to clear invasive plants from our area to make way for native varieties. Further, control of certain invasive plants within the electoral areas is enforceable through Bylaw No. 2347.

Some fun facts:

• 76 sites treated 
• 20.70 ha (total area) monitored and treated
• 4+ community groups & organizations CVRD supports in invasive species monitoring & control 

The CVRD also partners with the local municipalities to deliver the Knot-In-My-Property (KOMP) program, which is a regional weed control initiative targeting the priority invasive plants Giant Hogweed and Knotweed. This program includes community outreach, education, and a treatment and monitoring program.

Learn more about invasive plants and connect with a local volunteer group.

We are proud of our parks. One of the CVRD’s four strategic priorities is Climate Crisis and Environmental Stewardship and Protection. Our parks protect sensitive environments, critical habitats and native biodiversity. They provide important ecosystem services such as carbon storage and stormwater management. The preservation of natural systems is one of the simplest and most effective tools we can use to help combat climate change. Our parks also serve our community’s wellbeing and work towards a second strategic driver, Community Partnerships. Parks works collaboratively with community groups on the design and delivery of park infrastructure, with conservation groups on the acquisition of parkland, and with other local governments on initiatives that span jurisdictions. In total over the past two years, 52.14 acres of new land was added to our parks and trail network. Here are some more 2021-2022 highlights from our parks department:

2021:

• A New Fanny Bay Playground was opened.
• Denman Island Kirk Road stairs project was completed, creating a safer passage for pedestrians to travel from the ferry terminal to the downtown core.
• Union Bay connector trail was improved to make a safer and more convenient neighbourhood connection in Union Bay.
• qax mot Conservation Area was opened. Upon purchase of the land, the CVRD reached out to K’ómoks First Nation for its naming. After consulting with Elders and knowledge keepers, Hegus Rempel advised the CVRD that the K’ómoks people had chosen the name qax mot, meaning lots of medicine in the traditional ay̓aǰuθəm (ayajuthem) language. 
• The expanded parking area at the Bates Road entrance to Seal Bay Park was opened.

 2022:

 

• Design work for Coupland Loop trail in Seal Bay Nature Park is underway to make it more accessible. Construction planned for 2023.
• Design work for the Lazo Greenway is underway. This is a partnership with Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and Town of Comox. Construction planned for 2023.
• A bird blind was constructed in Seal Bay Nature Park to improve the user experience and promote wildlife education. It includes a Birds of Vancouver Island sign, helping residents and visitors identify the birds they spot on their visit.
• Two electric vehicle charging stations were added to Seal Bay Nature Park parking lot on Hardy Road, encouraging the use and supplying the infrastructure for no emissions vehicles. 

The Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) is a shared vision for managing growth and community impacts in our diverse urban and rural neighbourhoods. It is a commitment made by the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD), City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, and Village of Cumberland to work together to promote communities that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable for generations to come. The Regional Growth Strategy Performance Monitoring Dashboard enables our communities to see at a glance if we are meeting the targets and goals set in the following areas:

• Housing
• Natural Areas and Parks
• Economic Development
• Transportation
• Infrastructure
• Food Systems
• Public Health and Safety
• Climate Change

When new information becomes available (ex: 2021 census) the Dashboards are updated and historical, year-over-year comparisons are easy to make. Within each dashboard the objective is summarised and data presented visually and numerically. 

Did you know that the new CVRD Main Office at 770 Harmston Avenue, in Courtenay, is built to LEED Gold Standards? It was purpose built with sustainable design elements inside and out. They include:

• Chilled beam heating and cooling system (50 per cent more efficient than conventional forced air systems).
•  LED lights on timers.
• Water efficient fixtures throughout.
• Native and drought tolerant plants for landscaping.
• Two public electric vehicle charging stations.
• Shade devices to control heat gain.
• Best management practices used to address stormwater including bioswale, detention tank system. It reduces infrastructure costs by reintroducing water into the aquifer instead of the storm water system.
• Solar energy system installed on the roof (19KW system which is the equivalent of powering two average size homes in the Comox Valley for one year).
• Recycled materials utilized within the steel structure as well as low VOC finishes throughout the building.
• White roof to reduce the effects of heat islands within urban centre.
• Loads of bicycle parks for the public and secured bike storage for staff.

Building to this high standard helps the CVRD fulfil one of its four strategic priorities, Climate Crisis and Environmental Stewardship and Protection. 

 

Sea levels in coastal areas of the CVRD are expected to rise as a result of climate change, which will increase flooding from coastal storms. We are planning for these changes now. The Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy has taken a two-phased approach to meet its objectives

• Phase 1 - Coastal Flood Mapping Project: a coastal flood hazard map(s) to understand where and how deep water might be in a flood event. Findings from Phase 1 are now available. 
• Phase 2 - Flood Risk Assessment and Preliminary Options Assessment identified preferred adaptation actions that maybe used within areas of risk. Findings from Phase 2 are now available.

In addition to the Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy, since 2017 the CVRD has participated in a program called Green Shores, a voluntary, incentive-based rating program focused on positive steps to reduce the impact of development on shoreline ecosystems. The CVRD is one of two pilot communities participating in the Green Shores for Homes Incentive Study supported by the Real Estate Foundation of BC and the Pacific Salmon Foundation. The pilot project offers incentives to residential property owners (shoreline assessments, project design assistance and Green Shores certification) in select neighbourhoods in the CVRD. The project hopes to increase understanding of the feasibility of using incentives, policies and education/training to increase climate adaptation activities while at the same time decreasing the risk and financial impacts of climate change adaptation.

The CVRD is committed to community climate action and has developed a community-wide greenhouse gas emissions inventory to better understand the carbon emission sources from community activities in the entire region. 

Carbon emissions are rapidly warming the planet and impacting weather patterns and the environment. The rapid increase in emissions is a result of community activities such as transportation and heating buildings. Understanding these sources helps us to plan for actions to reduce climate change impacts and work towards a low carbon future.

The Comox Valley GHG emissions were 433,983 tonnes of CO2e in 2021, a 1.8% reduction from 2018. The top carbon emission sources in the region are from transportation and buildings. To learn more about community emission sources and the inventory visit Climate Change & Action.

Due to climate change, extreme weather events are becoming more common. The CVRD, City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland and K’ómoks First Nation  have partnered together to distribute local emergency notifications by text message and voice calls through Connect Rocket. These notifications are intended to inform you about incidents that could impact you. By working together we can take proactive steps to build a safer and more resilient community. 

More information about this program, including step-by-step instructions and FAQs, are available on the emergency notification page. We encourage all residents to register and sign up for notifications for the areas in which they live, work and play.

Learn more about Emergency Preparedness

Floods and wildfire are just two examples of climate related emergencies which could impact our communities. If an emergency happens in your community, it may take emergency workers some time to reach you. You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family (including your pets) for a minimum of 72 hours. Here are three things which will help you get prepared:

• Prepare a Home Emergency Plan
• Gather items for an Emergency Kit
• Assemble a Grab-and-Go Bag for each member of your household

We never know when a climate related emergency or disaster may strike. Part of being prepared is practising what to do in the event of an emergency and how to do it. Large emergencies in the Comox Valley will require a comprehensive, coordinated response and recovery work. No individual community within the Comox Valley has the capacity to respond to these large emergencies on their own. 

On September 27, 2022 the Comox Valley Emergency Program (CVEP) ran a regional exercise for staff and volunteers from across the Comox Valley. The exercise immersed over 200 participants in the response to a simulated, but historical, earthquake in the Forbidden Plateau region requiring a coordinated regional response using a Comox Valley EOC, which was 770 Harmston that service as the Comox Valley Regional District’s, City of Courtenay Level 2-3 Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and as a regional EOC . Personnel and volunteers provided more than 1,750 hours of their time as in-kind. Over the course of eight hours, two shifts of regional EOC personnel worked together to deal with various scenarios describing widespread damage impacting several critical infrastructure sectors including transportation, communications, natural gas transmission lines, and electrical power. A team of exercise facilitation staff supported the delivery of the exercise across four physical exercise site locations. This regional approach to emergency management allows for joint planning, enables joint resource requests and resources sharing. 

The exercise was an excellent learning opportunity for all government and volunteer agencies involved. The findings and recommendations stemming from the exercise acknowledge that there is always room for growth and development and the importance of working ahead of time as team.

Learn more about the Fracture on Fifth Earthquake Exercise.

Climate related emergencies, like wildfire or flooding, can isolate communities from outside help. It may not be safe for you to leave your home and it may take time for emergency services to reach your neighbourhood. Individuals and neighbourhoods need to be prepared to be self-sufficient for a week or more following a major disaster. The Comox Valley Emergency Program (CVEP) has refreshed and simplified the Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program and Guide. This valuable program provides important tools and direction to ensure communities are prepared in case of an emergency. 

The Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program is an important step forward in building resilient communities and supporting each other after a disaster or public emergency.

 

Cari McIntyre, Emergency Planning Coordinator.

Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program (NEPP) offers the ability to be flexible, adaptable and creative. Every neighbourhood is unique, but there are six steps to follow to ensure success:

1. Be personally prepared
2. Be a neighbourhood champion
3. Prepare to host a meeting 
4. Meet to create a basic NEPP plan
5. Hold a NEPP leadership team meeting
6. Host follow-up meetings

Learn more about NEPP and how to get your neighbourhood involved.

In July 2021 the Comox Valley Regional District unveiled its new lithium ion battery powered Zamboni. This Zamboni saves approximately $6000 in propane costs ($3.50 per ice clean with propane we are now paying $.35 per ice clean for electricity). In addition it has improved indoor air quality as it's zero emission.

Image

Some changes literally shed light on climate action. The CVRD has been changing out lighting fixtures at its recreation facilities to help save energy. 

2021: All 400 watt metal halide lighting over the Comox Valley Aquatic Centre pools were removed. Fixtures were replaced with 150-200 watt LED fixtures.

2022: In the summer of 2022, 126 fixtures were changed in Arena 1 and 2 at the Comox Valley Sports Centre. The rinks had 400 watt metal halide fixtures and they were changed out to LED fixtures, giving a better overall light output and saving about 50% in energy to run the lights. Bonus energy savings, the lights don’t put out heat therefor reducing the ice plant run times to keep the ice temperature controlled. 

 

Collaboration has been key to the success of the Leisure for Everyone Accessibility Program (LEAP). The four local recreation departments, City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland, came together to ensure that all Comox Valley Residents have access to low-cost recreation options. Residents fill out one form to qualify for reduced costs at all facilities. 

LEAP by Numbers:

• In 2021 there were 1009 LEAP memberships
•  Adults: 490
• Child: 271
• Teen: 94
• Senior: 102

The LEAP programs helps the CVRD Recreation Commissions move towards achieving two of its strategic priorities:

• Strategic Goal 4 – Accessibility 
• Strategic Goal 2 – Partnership between Jurisdictions

Learn more about this program on the Financial Assistance Page.

LEAP Information Handout

LEAP Application Form

 

We’re always aiming to improve. In the spring of 2023 the Recreation Commission Strategic and Capital Development Outcomes was presented to the Comox Valley Recreation Commission. Founded in information gathered at a strategic planning workshop, it outlines priorities and suggested a framework to achieve its objectives. The strategic planning process for the Commission provided a focus on decision-making for future capital development. Numerous plans for various facilities support the process. The plans result from potential new facilities and the need to better understand existing usage rates, infrastructure conditions and opportunities that align with corporate strategic plans. Highlights from the plan envisioned:

• Additional winter field artificial turf capacity as well as amenity upgrades to existing fields.
• The need for additional ice surface.
• The benefits of delivering aquatic services from a central location.
• A borrowing strategy to outline potential funding.

Learn more about the Recreation Commission Strategic and Capital Development Outcomes.

Are you interested in helping to shape the future of recreation the Comox Valley? Share your feedback or ask a question visit Engage Comox Valley.

 

Higher Temperatures + Lower Precipitation=Drought Conditions. The CVRD has been updating its bylaws to reflect our changing climate and the impacts on our water systems. In 2018 Bylaw 129 was amended to introduce a mandatory shift to Stage 1 water restrictions on May 1st every year. In May 2023, the bylaw was further amended to introduce a mandatory shift to Stage 2 water restrictions on July 1st of the calendar year. Why were these changes adopted? 

CVRD staff monitors the availability of water throughout the year and reviews climatological data/modelling. Based on these they make recommendations to the Board which considers the historic water usage data for our region. We know that water consumption rises in the dry summer months. In fact, it almost triples compared to winter months. We also know that many people vacation in the summer, making it difficult to change their sprinkler system auto-timers. By making the shift at a reliable time every year our community can plan and become more conscious of their water usage at appropriate times. 

The amendments to the bylaw do not prevent the CVRD from enacting water restrictions earlier if necessary or at another other time of the year. They simply help our community avoid confusion and help promote the CVRD water conservation efforts. 

Why We Need Water Restrictions

We cannot avoid wildfires, however we can reduce the risk of damage or loss of buildings and properties using FireSmart techniques. But, imagine taking this one step further, protecting not just your home, but your neighbours as well. The FireSmart Canada Neighbourhood Recognition Program helps communities come together to complete an assessment and create a plan that identifies locally agreed-upon solutions neighbourhoods can implement and upkeep themselves. 

In the Comox Valley two communities have come together and been recognized as FireSmart. 

Martin Park FireSmart Neighbourhood in Courtenay

• 75 houses
• recognized in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.
• Hold annual neighbourhod events like chipping woody debris and yard cleanup.

Aldergrove FireSmart Neighbourhood in Electoral Area B

• 60 houses
• Recognized 2021 & 2022

Contacting your local fire department is a great first step if you are interested in FireSmart for your home and/or your community. The local governments within the greater Comox Valley work cooperatively to provide efficient and responsive fire protection to residents and visitors. The Fire Services Administered by the CVRD are:

• Hornby Island fire protection service provided through the Hornby Island Fire Rescue department.
• Denman Island fire protection service provided through the Denman Island Fire Rescue department.
• Black Creek-Oyster Bay fire protection service provided through the Oyster River Fire Rescue department.
• Mt Washington Fire Protection service provided through the Oyster River Fire Rescue department.
• Rural Cumberland fire protection service provided through Cumberland Fire Rescue department by service agreement. 
• Greater Merville fire protection service provided through Oyster River Fire Rescue department.
• Bates/Huband fire protection service provided through Comox Fire department by service agreement.
• Union Bay fire protection service and Fanny Bay fire protection service provided through the Union Bay Fire Rescue department.

Learn more about FireSmart

Contacts for your Local Fire Service Area

 

FireSmart BC

 

Emergency Support Services (ESS) is a program of the Provincial Government that provides short term relief to British Columbians who have been forced from their homes as a result of a natural disaster or other emergency situation. The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) helps to organize ESS volunteers in our community through recruitment, training, scheduling, supervising, recognizing and supporting the Emergency Support Services team, and by organizing and facilitating ongoing training to meet their goals and requirements. 

The ESS team will help Comox Valley community members when disaster strikes. They aid at reception centres, coordinate family reunification, they can help people find clothing, food, lodging and other critical needs in the 72 hours post emergency. 

Facts about our amazing ESS team:

• We currently have a team of 14 ESS volunteers, and are always looking for more! 
• Our ESS volunteers responded to six events in 2022.
• The initial training to prepare ESS volunteers is a commitment of approximately 20-30 hours, however our volunteers are continuously enhancing their skill base and knowledge through monthly meetings and training sessions, by participating in table-top scenarios and exercises, and through attending courses, conferences and webinars.

Volunteer Opportunities 

 

Temperatures globally are rising due to climate change, and our communities are no exception. In our community the CVRD has partnered with City of Courtenay, Komoks First Nation, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland to form the Regional Extreme Temperature Advance Planning team. The team helps to facilitate regional cooling centres when the mercury rises to levels which could be dangerous to health. 

In 2022 four heat warning were issued for the Comox Valley. Regional and municipal recreation and civic facilities doubled as drop-in cooling space during their operational hours. This included the Vancouver Island Public Library, the Comox Valley Sports Centre, the Lewis Center, and more. 

Mobile services, providing water, first aid, hydration and information, were also offered to unhouses persons and 847 interactions were documented across the four heat waves. Funding for this came through the Comox Valley Emergency Program.

Heat Safety

Comox Valley Emergency Program

Summers are getting hotter and drier and can lead to significant increased in water use. The CVRD recognizes that gardens and landscaping are important for Comox Valley Water System users. The Water Efficiency Plan (a collaboration between the CVRD, City of Courtenay and Town of Comox) was developed to ensure long-term sustainability of our water sources and systems. It outlines a comprehensive water efficiency program that involves a water efficiency plan, a water conservation bylaw to control sprinkling, water efficiency rebates and a water-wise education program. 

There are two rebates available for properties connected to the Comox Valley Water System, which includes most homes within the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox and CVRD Water Local Service Area.

Smart Control Irrigation Rebate

A smart control irrigation system can help residents use water more efficiently. Unlike traditional controllers, which are really just timers, smart controllers work by monitoring and using information about site conditions (such as soil moisture, rain, wind, slope, soil, plant type, and more) and apply the right amount of water based on those factors - not too much and not too little - to maintain healthy growing conditions. Industry testing has proven that they can successfully reduce outdoor water use by as much as 20-40 per cent annually while maintaining, and often enhancing, the health and beauty of the landscape.

Property owners are eligible for up to a $300 rebate on the purchase of a qualifying smart irrigation controller.

Soil Amendment Rebate

Lawns and gardens with high quality soil, mulch, or compost use water more efficiently thereby reducing water use. Nurturing healthy soil can double the rate of plant survival and growth, and cut landscape water needs by 50 per cent. In part, this is because healthy soil acts like a sponge, holding water and nutrients in the root zone of plants. Furthermore, healthy, absorbent soil is a key part of property storm water management, as it increases your landscape's ability to retain water from large rainfall events. 

Residential property owners are eligible for a rebate of 75 per cent of the cost, up to $200, of purchasing soil to improve the water-holding capacity of their lawn or garden.

Water Conservation Rebates

 

What is a ZEV? Zero Emissions Vehicle. At the CVRD in accordance with the Comox Valley Regional Growth Strategy and the Corporate Energy Plan, where they can be shown to meet operational requirements, the CVRD will prioritize the purchase of zero emission vehicles (ZEV) rather than conventional gasoline engines. ZEV include battery electric, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen fuel cell and extended-range electric vehicles. This includes the electric forklift at the Water Treatment Plant.

Fleet Management Policy

If you are a resident of Black Creek Oyster Bay or Royston you may have had a new water meter installed. The CVRD is three years into a five year project to replace the water meters in these communities for new and improved technology. The new Badger meters are a great tool for assisting in the conservation of water. They use cellular technology and can pick up leaks after 24 hrs rather then hoping to notice a ‘high read’ after the three month manual read on the old meters.  Residents can also download an app which gives them accurate real-time data about their water consumption. This helps to save water as well as time and money.

Facts about this project:

• Old meters were at end of life and needed to be replaced
• Old meters have paddle wheels inside that wear over time and therefore ’under read’ (unaccounted for water loss) 
• Old meters are touch read. Takes 10 operator days (two operators one week) to read the meters manually
• New meters are Badger meters with Beacon endpoints (cellular)
• New meters are extremely accurate with no moving parts 
• New meters are have cellular endpoints and send data to a cloud based server four to five times per day
• New endpoint technology allows us to see the meter attributes daily and alerts us to a variety of issues (leaks/low battery/tampering/reverse flow and ‘zero’ reads)
• Home owner can download an app and see their water use, graph their own habits and receive alert for high use or leaks

Water restrictions are an important part in reducing and conserving our water consumption in the community. The Comox Valley Water System moves to Stage 1 restrictions on May 1 each year. Not only is this the right thing to do from a conservation perspective, but it also helps to prepare us for the shift to Stage 2 on July 1, when lake levels begin to decrease and BC Hydro adjusts the Puntledge River water flows. 

Stage 1 and 2 are designed to reduce rather than deny lawn watering and other non-essential, intensive uses of water. Moving to Stage 1 and 2 automatically helps residents to plan. For example, knowing that the shift happens on a set date enables leaving for a vacation knowing that your sprinkler system will be set to times which are in compliance with the current water restriction level. Peace of mind, fewer fines, and water conservation in action.

Learn more about your water system and why we need restrictions.

Current Water Restrictions

In June 2023, we deployed a data buoy in Comox Lake. It provides us with a temperature profile of the lake. This initiative was identified as a priority by Comox Lake Watershed Advisory Group – water quality subcommittee. A thermistor string measures and transmits the water temperatures at every five meters from surface to lake bottom at its location. Creating a temperature profile of Comox Lake is important for a number of reasons:

• Temperature profiling over time gives us an indication of the heat balance of the lake which also determines how productive the lake is and therefore the risk (although considered low for now) of algal blooms.
•  The temperature of the upper layers is a good indication of general warming or cooling trends (changing climate), as is the overall heat budget of the lake.
• Temperature profiles are needed to determine evaporative losses.
• Comox Lake is the Comox Valley’s main source of drinking water. We know that cooler water is more palatable, less likely to grow biofilm in pipes, and less reactive in terms of creating disinfection by-products. Having a better understanding of water temperatures at various depths is important as climate change continues to impact air and water temperatures, potentially affecting our drinking water supply.
• Spring “turnover” is when the lake destratifies and nutrients are released from the cold bottom waters into the upper portion of the lake where the nutrients can be used by photosynthesizing algae. While turnover is common in many lakes, so far we have not seen evidence of turnover in Comox Lake. The thermistors will likely be able to confirm whether or not this process takes place.
• Since inflowing water will always finds its own density, the stratification of the lake determines whether water coming into the lake mixes evenly or becomes entrained between layers of water. One potential outcome of entrainment, if it occurred, could be that turbid water may actually not be diluted, but could flow directly from the source to the intake with little mixing.

Learn more about the Comox Lake Watershed. 

One way the CVRD is upholding its strategic priority, Climate Crisis & Environmental Stewardship & Protection, is by helping to support and facilitate affordable and effective public transit systems to make it more feasible for residents to reduce their dependence on the private automobile. To this end, the CVRD provides funding to the Hornby Island Economic Enhancement Corporation and Denman Works, both local non-profit organisation on the islands, to help deliver community bus services. 

The Denman Island Bus Service formally launched in 2022 as an expansion of the shuttle pilot project in 2021. The bus is a free service for all riders thanks to CVRD funding. The bus is equipped with a rack which can hold up to four bikes. The service currently runs May – September, with the ambition of becoming a year-round service. 

Denman Island Bus Service Rider Stats:

2022: 782 passengers

2023: 3115 passengers

The Hornby Island Bus began as a pilot project in 2017. In 2018 the CVRD and other local businesses stepped in to provide funding. The bus runs June – September. In 2022, four runs per day were added to the schedule to deliver service to the Tribune Bay/Helliwell Park/Whaling Station Bay areas. In total 332 trips were given over the summer.

Hornby Island Bus Rider Stats:

2022: 3800 passengers

2023: Stats not yet available

The future goals are to continue to improve transportation and mobility for residents and visitors to the islands.  

EVs & ZEVs 

To help meet the CVRDs goal of reducing corporate GHG emissions the CVRD board approved the fleet management policy, which requires the purchase of zero emissions vehicles (unless there is not one which meets operational needs). In 2019, fleet and equipment accounted for 7% of the CVRD’s energy consumption and 16% of corporate GHG emissions (Corporate Energy Plan, Appendix A).

The goals of the new Corporate Energy and Emissions Plan are to:

•  Adopt a net-zero corporate emissions target by 2050
• Aggressively work towards reducing corporate GHG emissions as the primary means of taking action, with a focus on phasing out corporate fossil fuel use.

The CVRD has just begun the to fully electrify its fleet, but has the goal of achieving this by 2030. Currently there are seven Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) in the fleet plus a fully electric Zamboni and an electric forklift. 

In addition, the CVRD realizes that transportation represents a significant source of community greenhouse gas emissions and is committed to helping to facilitate the transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) in our communities. The CVRD has installed 11 public charging stations, which are free to use, across the Comox Valley.

The CVRD participates in Go by Bike week, encouraging employees to get work on two wheels. There are bike racks or bike lockers at CVRD facilities and offices for employees to use.

For the spring 2023 Go by Bike week Team CVRD recorded:

• 83 Rides
• 1,056 kilometres ridden
• 229 kilograms of greenhouse gases saved

Fall Go By Bike week is around the corner, October 16 – 29, 2023. We’ll be participating. Will you? 

Transportation Alternatives in the Comox Valley

 

The Active Transportation Network Plan identifies priority areas and routes for investment in active transportation infrastructure. 

The Active Transportation Network Plan aims to ensure safe and accessible transportation options are available and accessible for all residents regardless of age, ability, or income to improve safety, and reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions throughout the region.

Another key goal of the plan is to improve connections between municipal areas and rural areas in order to create opportunities that will encourage residents to use active transportation on their daily trips - to work, to school, to shop, and to recreation. The plan identifies connections amongst the CVRD's Core Settlement Areas – being the municipalities, the rural settlement nodes (Union Bay, Saratoga, Mt. Washington), and K'ómoks  First Nation lands.

Active transportation includes:

• Walking (including people walking with service dogs, people jogging, and people using mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers)
• Cycling (including the use of pedal assist e-bikes, bicycle trailers, etc.)
• Rolling (skateboarding, in-line skating)
• Other emerging modes such as electric unicycles or other personal mobility technologies;
• And can include winter and water focused travel such as snowshoeing and kayaking (however these are not a main focus of this network plan).

Recent Updates:

• Royston Road Project: will look to improve safety conditions for pedestrians and cyclists along Royston Road, specifically towards the elementary school. 
• Cumberland to Courtenay Connector: The Village of Cumberland, City of Courtenay and Comox Valley Cycling Coalition identified a need to improve active transportation connections between these two core settlement areas.

Learn more about the Active Transportation Network Plan

The goal of the Lazo Greenway Trail project is to create opportunities for walkers and cyclists to travel along Balmoral Road and Lazo Road. A joint project between the Town of Comox , Comox Valley Regional District and Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MoTI), the path will help local residents connect to Goose Spit, Lazo Marsh and Point Holmes by foot or bike. 

Lazo Greenway Trail Project Page

Building a Better Future

As of May 1 2023, the CVRD implemented the Province of British Columbia’s new BC Energy Step Code requirements. The updates to the BC Building Code will support a transition to net-zero buildings by 2032, reducing the amount of energy required by new buildings and offering an efficient set of standards for building energy performance. The updates align with several of the CVRD Board strategic drivers, including Fiscal Responsibility, Climate Crisis and Environmental Stewardship and Protection and Community Partnerships.

The new BC Energy Step Code changes include:

• Residential properties will need to meet step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code and large buildings will need to meet Step 2.
• In 2027, requirements will increase again and step 4 will be required for small buildings and step 3 for larger buildings.
• Introduction of “opt-in” carbon pollution standards to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new buildings.
  • Intended to start as a local government opt-in program. Local governments can choose the level they wish to meet in their community by implementing a bylaw to enable that approach, with builders choosing to meet or exceed those local requirements
  • Back-up heat from woodstoves and decorative gas fireplaces will be excluded from GHG modeling in houses. This responds to feedback from communities that experience frequent power outages.

New BC Energy Step Code

Getting Rural Residents Connected. Access to reliable high-speed internet is underway for Denman and Hornby Islands residents. 

In 2021 a referendum for the proposed Hornby and Denman Islands high-speed internet initiative was held. 94% of voters were in favour of the establishment of the service, authorizing the necessary borrowing and entering into an agreement with CityWest, the telecommunications service provider. The goal of the project is to provide internet to every household and business. 

Maintaining and preserving natural areas is an important aspect of this project. When possible, CityWest runs underground lines within one foot of existing roads, reducing impact on vegetation.  Specialized techniques are used to drill around trees and tree roots, to minimize harm. 

Adding reliable high-speed internet means that business on the islands can continue to flourish and grow. Telecommuting becomes a more feasible option for island residents, which can help to reduce emissions by decreasing the needs for a car to commute. 

Learn more about this project. 

Woodsmoke is a significant source of pair pollution in the Comox Valley. You can help reduce the impact of wood smoke in the Comox Valley by switching to a cleaner heating appliance or by following smart burning practices. The CVRD offers rebates for exchanging a wood-burning appliance used for home heating and replace it with an electric heat pump. The CVRD also offers free moisture meters (while quantities last) to help residents ensure that if they are going to burn wood, that the wood is dry. We also encourage residents to check the ventilation index before burning and avoid burning on days where air pollution is high. We also offer tips on backyard burning alternatives, the three C’s: Composting, Chipping & Cycle. 

Learn more about the Woodsmoke Reduction Program.

The Comox Valley Sewer Conveyance Project is a significant infrastructure undertaking for the Comox Valley Regional District that aims to enhance the safety and reliability of the sewer system in the community. The project involves the installation of approximately nine kilometers of new sewer forcemain, which will route the sewer pipes further inland to protect them from potential damage by waves, rocks, and logs. This project is crucial in preventing potential environmental disasters in the community.

Here are the key components of the project:

1. New Sewer Pipe Installation: The project will involve laying a new sewer forcemain pipe that extends from the Courtenay Pump Station all the way to the sewage treatment plant on Brent Rd. This new pipe will be designed to withstand the challenges posed by the local environment, ensuring its long-term reliability.
2. Courtenay Pump Station: A new Courtenay Pump Station will be built as part of the project. This station will not only meet current earthquake standards but will also incorporate climate resiliency features, such as designing to the 2100 flood construction level. This is essential to ensure that the sewer system can continue to operate effectively, even in the face of changing environmental conditions.
3. Pump Station Upgrades: The project will also include upgrades to two existing pump stations: the K’ómoks Pump Station, located in IR1 (Indian Reserve 1), and the Comox Pump Station at Jane Place. These upgrades will likely improve their capacity, efficiency and resilience.

To keep the community informed and prepared for the upcoming construction, the CVRD is planning to host a series of public open houses and online webinars. During these sessions, they will present the construction schedule, traffic management plan, and other important details related to the project. 



Stay updated on the Comox Valley Sewer Conveyance Project and the upcoming public information sessions, by visiting the project webpage and subscribe to receive regular news about the project's progress and its potential impact on traffic and daily commutes. 

The CVRD is pleased to announce the selection of the contractors for the Sewer Conveyance Project. The project is set to begin in March 2024.

Construction will present significant traffic disruption along an important route that is used by residents, businesses and services on a daily basis. We recognize that there are unique audiences in our community that will require information on commuting options and how these options, such as bus transit, cycling and ride sharing, will be impacted. Our goal is to educate and build awareness with key project messages that encourage the use of different modes of transportation and reinforce the importance of following traffic flows and detour routes in effort to reduce traffic congestion.  

In January 2024, the CVRD will host a series of pre-construction open houses and online webinars to present the full traffic management plan and construction schedule. Watch for details on the project website and consider subscribing to receive project news and important traffic updates to help your plan your daily commute. 



Traffic Management Strategy 

The Sewer Conveyance Project crosses culturally sensitive areas and  known archaeological deposits along the nine kilometre forcemain route. Culturally sensitive areas are identified as regions of land that lie within 200 metres of a shoreline or major waterbodies. These areas must be treated with care and attention to ensure that, before any construction occurs, a thorough archaeological investigation is carried out to determine the presence of any sensitive material. 

Pre-construction investigation work aligns with the K’ómoks First Nation’s Cultural Heritage Policy.  In 2022, the project team carried out archaeological investigations to enable the CVRD to assess currently recorded archaeological site boundaries and the extent of culturally sensitive materials within the forcemain footprint. Results will be used to guide effort and methodologies in a second phase of investigation prior to construction. If necessary further investigations and screening of archaeological deposits will be conducted. 

The CVRD Board identifies the importance of Indigenous Relations as one of its strategic drivers and is committed to advancing reconciliation. As such, these pre-construction investigations are an important part of responsible stewardship of the land on which we have the privilege to work, live and play.

Comox Valley Sewer Conveyance Project

This month, the Comox Valley Regional District announced the awarding of two contractors for the Sewer Conveyance Project, Maple-Knappett joint venture and Wacor Holdings Ltd. Both contractors were selected for their extensive experience and proficiency in delivering top-tier infrastructure solutions for regional wastewater projects.

Notably, the contractors' proposals came in under the budgeted amount, enabling the CVRD to revise the total cost projection to $96 million. This final cost amounts to a $5 million decrease from the initially approved project budget, marking a significant success in the procurement process.

The Sewer Conveyance Project encompasses the construction of a new Courtenay Pump Station, retrofits to the K’ómoks First Nation and Town of Comox Pump Stations, and the installation new sewer forcemain inland, diverting it away from the foreshore to mitigate environmental risks.

Scheduled to commence in March 2024, construction is expected to span approximately 30 months. To prepare residents, businesses, and commuters for the upcoming disruptions during construction, the CVRD will host a series of public open houses and online webinars early in the new year. These events will be an opportunity to learn more about the project traffic management plan and comprehensive construction schedule. Watch for full details to be announced in January 2024 and follow the project online.

Image

Watch Video 

Floods are something which can happen in our region at any time of year. They can be caused by a number of factors including, heavy rain, snow melt, storm surges, or damage to structures like dikes and dams. With the changing climate and an increasing number of extreme weather events, such as atmospheric rivers, the risks of floods has increased. 

The Comox Valley Emergency Management Service (CVEMS) works in collaboration with its partners to help our region prepare for emergencies, such as floods.

There are a number of things which you can do to prepare before a flooding event: 

• Store valuables and important items or documents in water-tight containers or in higher places, like on a tall shelf or upper floor
• Clean your gutters regularly
• Keep nearby storm drains clear of debris
• In the winter, clear snow at least three to five feet away from your home's foundation
• Learn about where you can pick up sandbags (typically at no charge) in your area

CVEMS also encourages residents, especially those in rural areas, to ensure that culverts on and their properties are clear of debris. 

The CVRD is also working on the Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy. Sea levels are expected to rise as a result of climate change, which will increase flooding from coastal storms. Planning for these changes now will help reduce costs and impacts in the future.

Learn about the Coastal Flood Adaptation Strategy.

The FireSmart Program helps protect your home by educating on techniques which can reduce the risk of losing a building or property in a wildfire event. In the Comox Valley, FireSmart program is a collaboration between K'ómoks First Nation, Town of Comox, City of Courtenay, the Village of Cumberland, Comox Valley Fire Departments and the CVRD. 

New this year is the role of FireSmart Coordinator. With dryer, hotter, and longer summer seasons, wildfires have become more prevalent. This important role will support the Comox Valley partnered local governments and First Nation in public education, encouraging FireSmart neighbourhoods, debris removal (Chipper program) and supporting the development of a regional Comox Valley Community Wildfire Resilience Plan. 

Learn more about FireSmart

Temporary low-barrier drop-in spaces activated as a life-safety measure during periods of extreme cold (based on Assistance to Shelter Act temperature thresholds of -4* or lower and/or during active winter warnings). Services are delivered by local service providers, to offer a safe, warm, dry place of refuge with access to washroom facilities, a seating area, snacks and refreshments.  (No sleeping areas or registration requirements). Funding is authorized by Emergency Management & Climate Readiness (EMCR) for regional warming centre operations when Environment Canada temperature thresholds for extreme cold are hit. Comox Valley Emergency Management is a regional service in partnership with K'ómoks First Nation, the Town of Comox, the City of Courtenay, the Village of Cumberland and the Comox Valley Regional District. All Comox Valley communities work collaboratively in the planning and implementation of local warming 

Warming Centre vs. Emergency Shelter

The CVRD is committed to sustainable procurement and will endeavor to design opportunities to minimize environmental and ethical impacts and maximize social value. Section seven of the Procurement Policy outlines how the CVRD considers environmental, ethical and social value when entering into a procurement process.

7.1 Environmental Responsibility
When evaluating environmental responsibility in CVRD procurements, points may be awarded where proponents:

• Minimize environmental harm, including end of life impacts.
• Maximize resource efficiency (e.g. reduce energy and water consumption and minimize waste).
• Minimize carbon emissions.

7.2 Ethical Responsibility
When evaluating ethical responsibility, points may be awarded where proponents:

• Maximize fair trade opportunities.
• Ensure sound working conditions throughout the supply chain that meet or exceed provincial, national or international employment standards.

7.3 Social Value
When considering social value, points may be awarded where proponents:

• Commit to paying a Living Wage to all staff directly employed by the proponent.
• Maximize employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities among local, disadvantaged, equity-seeking or marginalized individuals and populations.
• Maximize the diversification of the supply chain by including non-profit organizations, social enterprises and small-medium enterprises.
• Contribute to the strengthening of the community by supporting the social goals and objectives of the CVRD.
• Include any corporate social responsibility initiatives undertaken by the organization that contribute to social wellbeing.

The Corporate Energy & Emissions Plan, approved by the CVRD Board in 2023, charts a pathway to net zero corporate emissions by 2050.

Some action underway include:

• Transition CVRD vehicles from internal combustion engines to electric
• Remove natural gas from CVRD facilities and install heat pumps and waste heat recovery systems
• Increase the energy efficiency of CVRD-owned buildings
• Install solar power to generate renewable energy
• Implement an Internal Cost of Carbon to account for the environmental cost of burning fossil fuel
• Investigate the viability of regional district energy systems
• Quantify the carbon sequestration potential of local forests, ocean areas, and soil

Learn more about the Corporate Energy Plan

The CVRD is conducting energy audits for the Water Treatment Plant, Water Pollution Control Centre, and Biosolids Composting Facility. Funded in-part by BC Hydro, the audits are the first step for the Water and Waste Water department to meeting their Corporate Energy and Emissions Plan goal. Associated Engineering was selected to conduct these audits and are tasked to generate a list of recommendations for the department to reduce their GHG emissions and find energy savings.

The goal is for the Water and Waste Water to pick the recommendations that are cost effective, and easily applicable.

Items that have the greatest potential for reducing GHG emissions, but that may have a larger price tag, or that can’t be integrated readily will have plans created for them for future application.

In tandem, Water and Waste Water co-created a working sustainability criteria list to aid in selecting the best strategies/recommendations.

The timeline for completion of the energy audits is March 1, 2024.

Read the full 2023 Corporate Energy and Emissions Update

The Sports Centre and Aquatic Centre together make up roughly 60 percent of all CVRD operational emissions. The CVRD has hired Focal engineering to conduct the Decarbonization Study. They are diving deep into the emissions sources at each facility, and charting a path to decarbonize the facilities with the ultimate target of achieving net zero energy. A net zero energy building is one that produces as much energy as it consumes through on-site renewable energy generation. This study will involve:

• The development of a comprehensive energy model of each facility;
• A strategy to eliminate or drastically reduce the burning of natural gas;
• A building envelope analysis to find ways to improve insulation and reduce outdoor air infiltration, an analysis of on-site renewable energy generation opportunities;
• And, other energy conservation measures. 

The consultants will also look into potential heat sharing and district energy opportunities with nearby buildings.

The timeline for completion of the Decarbonization Study is spring 2024.

Read the full 2023 Corporate Energy and Emissions Update