Environment

The City provides community services and infrastructure in support of a sustainable, livable City. The City’s environmental commitment is established through the integration of sustainability throughout the Official Community Plan, and is further reflected in Council’s Corporate Strategic PlanEnergy Policy and Climate Action Reserve Fund Management Policy.  Sustainability provides significant benefits for Abbotsford residents, including environmental stewardship and environmental self-sufficiency. 

Watercourses

The City has over 700 km of watercourses and ditches, as well as numerous lakes, ponds and wetlands. These aquatic habitats support populations of important fish and wildlife species.

Preventing Stormwater Pollution

Stormwater is the water from rain or melting snow that is not absorbed into the ground. In urban areas, stormwater goes into storm sewers (the grated drains found on streets), which empty directly into watercourses. Managing stormwater and drainage is key to preserving the health of streams and rivers.

Groundwater

When rain and snow fall, some water flows into streams, lakes, and oceans and becomes surface water. However, most precipitation either evaporates or seeps deep into the soil, eventually becoming groundwater. Groundwater is found trapped in the cracks, crevices and pores of underground rock. As groundwater moves, it can collect in underground areas known as aquifers.

Air Quality

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) provides information to help residents protect their health on a daily basis from the negative effects of air pollution. More information about air quality and the current index ratings for Abbotsford is available from the Air Quality Health Index - Central Fraser Valley, BC.