A grate way to give back adopt a catch basin in your community

Vancouver's initiative allows residents to adopt catch basins, which are crucial for urban drainage and flood prevention. Currently, 7,900 of the 45,000 basins are adopted, leaving 33,000 open for community care. Mayor Ken Sim recognizes the efforts of nearly 3,700 volunteers who help ensure the safety of their neighborhoods during severe weather. Participants receive tools to maintain their basins and can personalize them with creative names. The city encourages regular checks, especially before and after storms.

Adoptable basins marked with a heart are particularly needy and require extra attention. Community events for clearing these basins foster local engagement and awareness. This program not only addresses flooding but also helps protect local waterways and wildlife habitats.