FAQs
- Adoption of a new Flood Hazard Mitigation Bylaw to replace the previous RDN Floodplain Bylaw - Complete
- Adoption of the Coastal Flood Hazard Development Permit Area which designates the mapped coastal floodplain as the development permit area - Complete
- Slope Hazard Study - Currently Underway
- Coastal Risk Assessment and Engagement - Currently Underway
What are Coastal Hazards?
Coastal hazards are those related to natural events like flooding and coastal erosion. These hazards can be intensified during an extreme storm or when an earthquake causes a tsunami, land subsidence (gradual land surface sinking) or landslide (sudden downslope movement of land) along the coast or in upland areas under tidal influence. Causes of coastal hazards include storm surge, storm waves, strong currents and sediment, and sea level rise. These forces continually shape the RDN’s coast.
What is a coastal risk?
The combination of coastal hazards (such as flooding and erosion) plus the possibility of a negative consequence (such as property impacts) creates a coastal risk. A coastal hazard poses no risk if there are no consequences; but if there is potential that coastal hazards could impact people, property, buildings, sensitive habitats or infrastructure, coastal risk is present. To that end, risks can vary from place to place, even along the same coastline. This means we need to make better decisions about where to build and what to do to protect our communities and our environment.
What can we do to prepare for coastal risks?
Preparing for coastal risks in our region is everyone’s responsibility. The RDN is completing a Coastal Risk Assessment to better understand where our coastal areas are most vulnerable. This information will help us work together to identify options and tools that residents, business owners, and the RDN can use to better manage and adapt to a changing climate and coast. As we continue the conversation on coastal risks, we will be inviting residents of the RDN to stay involved.
Why is the RDN engaging?
Continued collaboration between all levels of government, First Nations, partners and you, residents of the RDN, is needed to create a more sustainable and resilient region. Working together to plan ahead means we can focus on things like regional enhancement and economic growth rather than repair and recovery.
How can I join the conversation?
You are in the right place to learn more about coastal risk!
The conversations about Our Changing Coast have only just begun. There will be more opportunities to share your experiences, ideas and point of view as this work progresses.
To be kept up to date on the progress of the Our Changing Coast Initiative through direct email, you can subscribe by clicking the Stay Informed tab.
How is this project related to the other coastal and climate adaptation work in RDN?
The RDN has undergone several projects related to climate adaptation and sea level rise over the last few years, including:
For more information on related projects, please visit the RDN Climate Adaptation Project Hub.
How is this program funded?
The work is funded through the RDN’s Regional Growth Strategy Service and contributions from the Union of BC Municipalities’ (UBCM) Emergency Preparedness Fund and the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) Climate-Resilient Coastal Communities Program.