Stormwater retention basins (SRBs) have been used in the City of Winnipeg since the early 1960s. The city and their land developers were in fact some of the earliest adopters of this technology. Early acceptance was based primarily on necessity as opposed aesthetics although it was recognized that retention basins did add to the visual appeal. The main reason why retention basins proliferated was because the land adjacent to our rivers and streams, which had previously afforded a cheap and easy drainage outlet, had by the 1960s, been exhausted. Our flat prairie landscape also made it very expensive to extend these land drainage systems further afield using conventional land drainage pipes.

Constructed Wetland Royalwood Subdivision Winnipeg (credit Ladco Co. Ltd.)

In case you missed something, below is a reminder of the Park related topics covered over the last two weeks. – SPEAK UP Winnipeg - about OUR Parks. . .

In an effort to better address the condition of Winnipeg’s roadside vegetation the Parks and Open Space Division has been testing the merits of salt tolerant and native grass species. Ultimately the aim is to establish hardy species that are well adapted to the environment they are placed in, thereby reducing the need for maintenance, renovation and weed control. . .

What should be the major focus for development and maintenance of the boulevards along our major streets (like Main St. Portage Ave, Henderson)? Click here for direct link to information about “Boulevard Vegetation Management”, referenced in Jack’s video.

Are you aware that Winnipeg had 13 off leash Dog Parks? We have a number of questions that we’d love your input on. . .