Stormwater System Maintenance

As we approach the fall and winter rainfall season, property owners, strata corporations, municipalities, and facility managers are strongly encouraged to inspect and maintain their stormwater and drainage systems before the onset of heavy seasonal rainfall. Current climate forecasts indicate that a strong El Niño is developing for fall and winter 2026–27, which can influence Pacific storm tracks and regional weather patterns. Regardless of the seasonal forecast, intense rainfall events can rapidly overwhelm poorly maintained drainage infrastructure. Preventive maintenance should include cleaning catch basins, storm drains, gutters, culverts, ditches and swales; removing leaves, sediment and debris; inspecting stormwater pipes, manholes, outlets and erosion protection; checking sump pumps and backflow protection; and confirming that overland drainage routes and emergency overflow pathways remain clear. Proactive inspection and maintenance before the first major fall storms can significantly reduce the risk of localized flooding, erosion, basement or foundation water intrusion, property damage and costly emergency repairs. ITMBC recommends completing these inspections and maintenance activities early in the season and addressing deficiencies before significant rainfall occurs.

First Field Review

Today, I conducted the first field review visit for our residential single-family development during foundation excavation. At this stage, we typically review the IFC design package with the contractor, emphasizing the importance of addressing the job site’s Health and Safety and Environmental concerns.

North Vancouver
North Vancouver

COVID-19 and Water Resources

Cleveland Dam – March 2020

We are all experiencing very tough times in light of COVID-19, and we must be committed to doing what we can to flatten the curve. Beside the many instructions that we are receiving from the health authorities, we always hear “wash your hand frequently “. As a member of Water Resources Community, we would like to remind that every drop of clean water matters, especially during this pandemic. Our resources are limited, and we should use water in a smart manner and wisely.

What we do in our SWM & ESC plans(4)? Pipes

As hydraulic designer of piping systems in our waterworks, we deal with following definitions on a regular basis:

. Pipe material and structure: homogen vs. composite, single wall vs. double wall

. Pipe mechanical properties against the external and internal loading including stiffness and service/bursting pressure, and working temperature during lifetime of project

. Pipe safety and health criteria

. Pipe fittings, installation and handling

There are baseline standards in the BC Building Code (2018), and we select the piping systems based on the conditions and needs in any project. With 25 years of experience in waterworks, stormwater, drainage, sanitary, and having understanding about pipes technologies , we do this process accurately.