Evaluating Nature-Based Solutions for Rainfall-Runoff Reduction

Implementing Partner: Build Change

Project Name: Evaluating Nature-Based Solutions for Rainfall-Runoff Reduction in Canada

This project assessed the effectiveness of nature-based solutions in mitigating flooding from heavy rainfall, integrating stakeholder insights.

Over 30 years, rapid population growth in Brandon has altered land permeability, increasing surface runoff and intensifying flood events.

By analyzing these changes, the study provides valuable guidance for sustainable flood management in the Assiniboine Watershed, promoting adaptive strategies that enhance resilience, restore natural hydrology, and reduce flood risks in response to evolving urban and environmental challenges.

Loss due to Floods
$ 0 bn
Cubic feet: per second
flooding in 2011
0

Impact and Key Findings

1

The study found that urban growth has tripled runoff rates, rising from 57.79 m³/s pre-development to 173.8 m³/s post-development. This sharp increase in surface water flow underscores escalating flood risks and the need for improved watershed management strategies.

2

The study highlights how rapid development has intensified flood hazards by accelerating surface runoff. These findings underscore the need for targeted flood mitigation strategies that address evolving landscape dynamics and shifting hydrological patterns, ensuring long-term resilience.

3

The study provides cost estimates for implementing nature-based solutions, equipping stakeholders with essential insights to develop sustainable, cost-effective flood management strategies. These findings support informed decision-making to reduce risks and strengthen watershed resilience.

Resources

Aishwarya Pillai

Lead Specialist

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes. 

Alpana Saha

Director, Partnerships, Governance, and Resource Mobilisation 

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes.