Natural Infrastructure

Manitoba is behind other Canadian jurisdictions in adopting nature-based solutions as standard practice in our cities and towns, which puts us in a strong position to learn from others as we develop locally appropriate versions of these useful technologies.

This will be an introduction to how natural infrastructure and nature-based solutions can help improve the climate resilience of our communities, using project examples to illustrate the benefits and challenges of their application in Manitoba.

Join us to learn how nature-based alternatives can augment and, in some cases, outperform standard engineering methods, solve multiple problems, and inspire a new way of thinking about the value of nature in the city.

What is Natural Infrastructure?

Natural infrastructure, also known as ‘green infrastructure’ or ‘nature-based solutions’ taps into natural processes to create more resilient, productive and high value urban environments.

These technologies include:

• Constructed Wetlands
• Shelterbelts and Eco-Buffers
• Green Roofs and Green Walls
• Bioswales
• Rain Gardens
• Rainwater Harvesting
• Permeable Paving
• Urban Forestry
• Productive and edible landscapes

SPEAKER

Glen Manning, FCSLA, GRP

Glen is a principal at HTFC Planning & Design with over 30 years of local and international experience across a broad range of practice. Glen has led the site design for several award-winning projects with a sustainability focus ranging from LEED Platinum Manitoba Hydro headquarters to rooftop agriculture and apiaries in Edmonton. His executed work has garnered many awards and includes green infrastructure, energy efficient and climatically responsive site design, recreational trails, roadside bioretention, arboriculture, ‘green’ parking and Transit facilities, and landscape restoration strategies. Glen is one of the few registered Green Roof Professionals practicing in Manitoba and completed training in 2019 on advanced bioretention facilities design. He served for six years as board member of the Green Action Centre, and three on the Chamber of Commerce’s Environmental Leadership Council. Glen remains a fair-weather cycle commuter and advocate for resilient and inclusive community design.

TICKETS

Have a question about concrete or a topic that would like to see covered in a presentation about concrete? Become a member now (if you are not already).

Special pricing for Offices – a great chance to set up in your board room to participate in learning and to build collaboration within your team. SBM members qualify for $10 off this option.