VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(EMWNews – July 21, 2008) – The Planning Institute of BC (PIBC) has named the Cowichan Basin Water Management Plan the best in the province.

The plan was coordinated by Westland Resource Group and David Harper, in association with Cowichan Valley Regional District, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ministry of Environment, Catalyst Paper, Pacific Salmon Commission, and the Cowichan Tribes. It won first place in the Comprehensive Policy and Plans category (projects over $50,000) at the PIBC’s annual awards ceremony.

“This plan is an innovative response to increasing demand and impacts already being felt by climate change, combined with the challenge of managing a complex, multi-jurisdictional resource,” said PIBC President Hazel Christy.

The process garnered broad public support to protect the ecosystem, balance the water supply, and create understanding about the Cowichan basin and water use.

The PIBC, through its Awards Committee and Awards Program, recognizes excellence in the planning profession and amongst its members. Other award winners included:

– City of Kelowna: Downtown Sign Plan (Site Planning and Design $50,000 and under)

– City of Vancouver: Oakridge Centre Policy Statement (Site Planning and Design over $50,000)

– City of Terrace: Airport Lands Area Concept Plan (Comprehensive Policy and Plans $50,000 and under)

– Beasley and Associates, Planning Inc.: Plan Abu Dahbi 2030 (Award of Excellence – Special Recognition)

– City of Whitehorse: Whistle Bend Planning and Design Charette (Award of Excellence – Honourable Mention)

– Hope Burns, Director of Planning, District of Central Saanich (2008 Planner of the Year)

The Planning Institute of BC is an association of BC and Yukon professional planners. Members work in a variety of fields, including land use planning, environmental resource management, land development, heritage conservation, social planning, transportation planning and economic development.