ETF 2025/26 Naturalizing UrbanStormwater Runoff Final Report

With funding from the New Brunswick Environmental Trust Fund, ACAP Saint John coordinated and implemented nature-based climate change adaptation projects across multiple urban sites in Saint John, focusing on stormwater mitigation, restoration of native biodiversity and their habitat, and community engagement.

Across all sites, more than 900 native trees, shrubs, and perennials were installed to increase infiltration, reduce runoff velocity, and stabilize soils. Green infrastructure practices—including bioswales, rain gardens, shade trees, and riparian plantings—were integrated into neighbourhood parks, school grounds, commercial properties, and industrial parks to reduce localized flooding and improve downstream watershed health. Nearly 200 volunteers contributed hands-on support through planting events and stewardship activities.

Collectively, these interventions demonstrate the effectiveness of green infrastructure as a climate change adaptation and environmental enhancement measure, providing measurable hydrological and ecological benefits while strengthening community climate resilience through hands-on learning.