Sewer and storm separation in Vancouver

Sewer and storm pipes are still combined in many parts of Vancouver. This creates a problem during heavy rain: when a sudden rush of water overwhelms the underground system, sewage can be diverted into the ocean. If the pipes were separate, rainwater would not add to the volume moving through the sewer system, allowing sewage to flow safely to treatment facilities. It may take another 100 years to separate Vancouver’s sewer and storm pipes and of course lots of money.

But homeowners can help.

Capturing rainwater with rain barrels or detention ponds or tanks can reduce or delay the volume entering underground pipes and offset peak flows. Instead of all the rain running off your roof and going straight into the sewer and storm pipes, a barrel fills to capacity and then releases water slowly into the system. If you have a larger pond or underground tank, runoff from your property may remain there entirely, removing that burden from the infrastructure.

Imagine rolling a bunch of marbles down a slope. If you place little obstacles here and there, enough of them will slow the marbles down. They will not stop the marbles completely, but they can prevent them from all crashing down at once.

Increasing the permeability of your lot is another way you can help. Instead of hard surfaces such as pavers and asphalt, consider soil, grass, or other surfaces that allow water to soak into the ground. Rain will be absorbed into the earth and can help replenish aquifers.