Lessons from Recent Flooding in Canada and the US

In recent years, severe flooding has impacted multiple regions. In British Columbia, the 2021 floods caused widespread destruction of infrastructure, displaced communities, and devastated farmland. Similarly, in the United States, the 2023 floods in Vermont resulted in catastrophic damage as streets turned into rivers and homes were submerged due to inadequate stormwater control.

Current events continue to highlight serious flood challenges, with heavy rainfall triggering significant flooding in Vancouver, BC, and New Mexico. In these cases, impermeable surfaces left water with "nowhere to go," overwhelming urban drainage systems and causing rivers to overflow, damaging roadways, homes, and entire communities.

These flooding events highlight the importance of permeable surfaces and localized water management solutions. Without effective stormwater systems in place, cities are left vulnerable to the increasing frequency of heavy rainstorms, which are often exacerbated by climate change.

How CORE Gravel and CORE Water Can Help

Reducing Pressure on Storm Sewers

One of the primary causes of flooding in urban areas is the excessive amount of water directed into storm sewers, which cannot keep pace with the rapid flow from paved surfaces. The recent flood events show how quickly storm sewers can be overwhelmed when water has nowhere else to go.

CORE Gravel permeable surfaces allow rainwater to infiltrate into the ground gradually, reducing the amount of runoff directed into storm drains. This simple change can significantly alleviate the pressure on these systems and reduce the likelihood of future flooding.

Reducing Peak Flow Events in Urban Streams

In many of the recent flood events across North America, rivers and urban streams saw sudden surges in water levels, causing erosion and damage to the surrounding areas. This type of peak flow event, where water rapidly moves from streets and rooftops into streams, is one of the most damaging effects of poor stormwater management. CORE Gravel foundations allow water to filter through the ground rather than contributing to rapid runoff, helping to reduce peak flows and the impact of flooding on urban waterways.

Recharging Groundwater and Supporting Aquatic Life

Another vital benefit of permeable surfaces is their ability to recharge groundwater. Recent flooding in regions like BC, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and the Midwest US has caused long-term damage to both the infrastructure and the natural ecosystems. When stormwater is allowed to infiltrate the ground, it not only mitigates flooding but also recharges groundwater reserves, ensuring a more sustainable water supply for the area (and Keeping the Earth Alive). By keeping rainwater on-site longer, our systems protect aquatic habitats, which are often destroyed during major storm events when excessive runoff causes the erosion of stream banks and stream beds. 

In British Columbia, the flooding also affected salmon habitat as heavy rains washed debris and pollutants into rivers. CORE Gravel systems can help protect these habitats by reducing the amount of harmful stormwater runoff entering the ecosystem, preserving the delicate balance that species like salmon depend on.

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Potential for Government Support and Rebates

As municipalities and governments look to address the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and increasing storm severity, property owners who implement stormwater management systems like CORE Gravel foundations and CORE Water catchment systems may be eligible for government rebates and property tax reductions.

Cities, municipalities, states and provinces, as well as Federal agencies across North America have started offering incentives for projects that contribute to stormwater control and flood prevention (i.e. Rainwater Rewards Program, Victoria, BC., RiverSmart Homes, DC). 

Installing these permeable surfaces and water catchment systems not only protects your property but could also provide financial benefits through such programs.

Why Choose CORE Gravel Foundations and CORE Water?

With permeable driveways, parking surfaces, and pathways, CORE Gravel foundations offer a practical solution that reduces runoff and alleviates pressure on storm drains. CORE Water catchment systems complement this by ensuring that rainwater from roofs is properly managed on-site, instead of being directed straight into storm sewers. Together, these systems create a resilient infrastructure that helps protect against the rising threat of urban flooding while also preserving the natural environment.

A Solution for the Future

As flooding becomes an increasingly common occurrence due to climate change, proactive measures are essential. Recent flooding events in Canada and the US have shown how devastating unchecked stormwater can be. By incorporating CORE Gravel and CORE Water solutions, homeowners, businesses, and municipalities can protect their properties, reduce the strain on public infrastructure, and contribute to a sustainable future for both the built and natural environments.

By installing permeable systems and managing stormwater on-site, you’re not only safeguarding your property but also helping to protect aquatic habitats and reduce the impact of flooding in your community—a true win-win for both people and the environment.