Revelstoke and Golden are receiving funding from the Columbia Basin Trust to adapt parks, community spaces and streetscapes to a changing climate.
The Trust is investing nearly $670,000 across several communities. Revelstoke will receive $72,500 to plant 75 trees along Victoria Road, while Golden is receiving $100,000 to enhance one of its recreational parks.
Kate Kendall, senior manager of the delivery of benefits for the Trust said communities are taking practical steps to adapt to climate change in ways that reflect their local needs and priorities. In total, the Trust is investing nearly $670,000 to many cities and towns.
“Whether responding to extreme heat, heavy rainfall, drought or wildfire, investments in trees, parks and natural spaces help reduce risk, support healthy ecosystems and improve quality of life for people across the Basin.”
The Trust added communities will reduce heat, manage stormwater, improve wildfire resilience, support biodiversity and protect the health and safety of its residents thought introducing climate-resilient landscaping.
“Local governments will use funding to plan and implement activities such as urban forest inventories, flood-risk and urban heat island mapping, and climate-resilient landscaping and natural features, including ponds and wetlands, tree planting, fire-resistant vegetation and pollinator berms,” the Trust added in their release.
Golden’s Keith King Memorial Park, a central recreational location, will provide comprehensive landscaping such as drought tolerant shrubs and grasses and hardy tree species. The goal is to reduce water use, increase shade and create a greener space.
“Creating outdoor spaces that are adaptable and resilient to climate change is a priority for us,” Jordan Petrovics, director of recreation services for the Town of Golden said. “Drought-tolerant landscaping will reduce irrigation needs and conserve water, while additional trees will increase shade, provide a natural sound barrier and enhance the experience for people using the park.”
Other city projects being funded are Creston, Montrose, Naskup, Nelson, New Denver, Silverton and Trail.
