I've been following the Depave website because these folks are doing fantastic work. It would be great if we could get some similar projects going here in the City of Burnaby, and across Metro Vancouver and the lower mainland.
Depave's mission is "to inspire and promote the removal of unnecessary concrete and asphalt from urban areas" with the vision of "Livable cities where people and wildlife coexist and thrive amidst clean air, clean water, and an abundance of plants, trees, and vegetation."
Here's an update on the type of stuff they're doing:
-------------------------------
Depaving Opportunity!
On Saturday, March 21st, we will be partnering with the Mt. Scott Learning Center to depave part of their parking lot at MSLC! They are hoping to turn it into a green space for students and community members, and need volunteers to help with the depaving. They are looking for 40-50 volunteers. I know there are Depavers out there ready to bust up some cement, so here is your chance! The information is as follows:
* Date: Saturday, March 21
* Time: 10 am - 4 pm
* Location: MSLC High School at Laurelwood Church (6148 SE Holgate Blvd. in Portland)
* Requirements: Event will go on rain or shine so come prepared for the appropriate weather. Tools, gloves, safety gear, drinks and lunch will be provided.
-------------------------------
And another project they've been working on:
Fargo Garden Update
Fargo Garden is the site on N. Williams and NE Fargo, where we did our large depaving event in June of 2008. The site is approximately 3,000 square feet. The project was funded through a grant from the (City of Portland) Bureau of Environmental Services, and includes transforming the now-depaved lot into a 'food forest' and community gathering space.
After many months of work, we submitted our 'Site Development Plan,' including stormwater management features, to the Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) on March 2nd. We hope to receive our permit by the end of this week (by 3/20) and then to spring into action with the rest of our work. What does that entail? Removing the remaining gravel from the site, creating paths and bioswales, adding lots of organic material, finishing the fence and gates... and planting! And celebrating!
--------------------------------
This sounds so cool!
Posted by Paul at March 18, 2009 08:15 AM