Preparing Wrenford for a changing climate
Climate change is already affecting our city. We are seeing heavier rainfalls that overwhelm our stormwater systems, hotter summers that raise health risks, and longer dry spells that stress our water supply and green spaces. The Wrenford Climate Adaptation Strategy outlines how the City will protect our neighbourhoods, infrastructure and natural environments from these impacts.
What we are planning for
Our strategy focuses on three main climate hazards that threaten our community:
- Extreme rainfall and flooding: More intense storms can exceed the capacity of our sewers and creeks. We are upgrading drainage along Corvid Creek and reinforcing the berm at Riverside Flats Park.
- Urban heat: Downtown and the Benchlands absorb and hold heat. We are planting more street trees, creating shaded walkways and increasing reflective surfaces to cool the core.
- Drought and water stress: Dry periods put pressure on Ambrel Lake and our water treatment infrastructure. We are promoting water conservation, repairing leaks and expanding drought-tolerant landscaping in public parks.
Our adaptation goals
We have set clear targets to guide our work over the next decade:
- Reduce the urban heat island effect in the downtown core by 1.5 °C by 2035.
- Increase permeable surface area across the city by 15% to help the ground absorb stormwater.
- Protect 90% of the city's water supply during a five-year drought event.
- Ensure all new public infrastructure meets updated flood and heat resilience standards.
These goals are supported by the Green Infrastructure Fund, a dedicated capital reserve for projects like bioswales, permeable pavement and green roofs.
Equity in climate action
Climate impacts do not affect everyone equally. Older residents, people with disabilities, and those living in lower-income neighbourhoods often face higher risks during heat waves and floods. Our strategy uses the City's Equity Framework to ensure that adaptation projects prioritize the communities most in need. We will track spending and outcomes to make sure benefits reach everyone.
How you can help
Adaptation is a shared responsibility. You can prepare your property by installing rain barrels, planting native species, and clearing storm drains. The City is also asking for your feedback on our strategy. Community engagement opens on April 15, 2026, and will run through June 2026. Visit our Community engagement policy page to learn how to share your ideas.
Next steps and updates
Phase I of the strategy was completed in March 2025 following a risk assessment led by the Wrenford Climate Adaptation Steering Committee. We are now moving into implementation and public consultation. Staff will report back to Council every six months on progress, funding and adaptation targets. View the capital works program to see how these projects fit into the city's long-term spending plan.