Low Impact Development Tools

A diverse set of tools and techniques can be used to achieve low impact development objectives, from modest changes to landscape practices, to more technical tools, such as computer modeling and green infrastructure designs. The Alberta Low Impact Development Partnership has focused on demonstrating the feasibility of LID strategies best suited to our soils, climate, land development practices and watersheds.

Ecological Footprint

Using various methods to determine the community’s impacts on the environment and seeking integrated solutions; such as, better site planning practices and green infrastructure to reduce these effects.

Natural Water Balance Modeling 

Applying water balance computer modeling to determine the impact of development on the watershed; and using this information in community planning and engineering designs (see www.waterbalance.ca)

Conservation Landscaping

Changing landscape designs and practices to optimize the use of stormwater runoff while encouraging low water use plants, improving soil and planting conditions to increase natural plant vigour and reduce nutrient and chemical maintenance inputs.

Stormwater Capture and Reuse

Promoting stormwater reuse for irrigation and other purposes where potable water is not necessary to encourage water conservation, reduce pollution discharges and stream erosion, and improve watershed hydrology and restoration of the natural hydrologic regime. Other tools and techniques are under development as part of our inter-provincial partnerships.