Natural Hazards

Saltair Coastal Slope Stability Assessment

The CVRD has completed a hazard assessment of the steep coastal and ravine bluffs within Saltair. This study identified the potential for retrogressive landslides to occur affecting properties along the coast and adjacent to the Stocking Creek and Porter Creek Ravines. An amendment to the Official Community Plan to update the Landslide Hazard Development Permit Area has been proposed.

Background Information

Be prepared. Understand and manage the risks.

Cowichan is an amazing place to live. However, our region has natural hazards such as flooding, landslides, wildfires and earthquakes. We are also hit by extreme weather events like windstorms and heavy snow. Being aware of potential hazards and being prepared will help reduce the risks to you and your family.
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Read the Natural Hazards Householder

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Risk Tolerance Policy and Assurance Process

The CVRD has a Natural Hazard Risk Tolerance Policy to guide land use and development decisions in areas where hazards may present a risk the life and safety of residents. In areas subject to hazards such as landslides, you may be required to hire an engineer or geoscientist to prepare a geohazard risk assessment for your property prior to any development. 

The CVRD and Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC) have partnered to establish a natural hazard assessment review and assurance process. While the CVRD Assurance Statement Form is comprehensive, it is intended to supplement, not replace, a natural hazard assessment report. The CVRD Hazard Acceptability Thresholds and CVRD Hazard Assurance Guide provide guidelines to support completion of the Assurance Statement.

  1. CVRD Assurance Statement Form
  2. CVRD Hazard Acceptability Thresholds Guide
  3. CVRD Hazard Assurance Guide

Are you Prepared? Have a Plan. Make a Kit.

Tips - Have a Plan

Your emergency plan should include details about:
  • meeting places for your family and loved ones to reunite, one close to your home and another outside your community
  • names and contact information for your neighbours 
  • names and contact information for out-of-town contacts
  • family health details (medication names, Care Card numbers, doctor contact information
  • names of people assigned to pick up children, family members who require assistance, or pets, in case you're not able to
  • the location of your emergency kit and grab-and-go bags

Tips - Make a Kit

Your basic family emergency kit should contain these items:
  • Food that doesn't spoil, such as canned goods, energy bars, or dried foods
  • 4L of water per person per day, preferably in small, easy-to-carry bottles
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight and radio (battery powered or hand cranked)
  • Manual can opener
  • Cash (small bills)
  • Prescription medication, baby formula
  • Your emergency plan and contact information
  • Extra keys to your home and car
  • Food and water for your pets