|
|
- Info
Protecting water resources with smart growth
| Author: |
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency |
| Date: |
2004 |
| Periodical: |
EPA 231-R-04-002. Washington, DC. 116 p. |
| Link: |
http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/pdf/waterresources_with_sg.pdf
|
| Abstract: |
Protecting Water Resources with Smart Growth is intended for audiences already familiar with smart growth, who now seek specific ideas on how techniques for smarter growth can be used to protect their water resources. Section I of this report describes how communities have used smart growth techniques at the regional level to minimize the impacts of new development on their water resources. Communities have been successful by implementing policies to preserve critical regional watershed areas, and strategically directing development to existing communities to minimize runoff from impervious surfaces such as roadways, driveways, and rooftops. Section II discusses site-level techniques that local governments have used to further mitigate the impacts of development. When used in combination with regional techniques, these site-level techniques can prevent, treat, and store runoff and associated pollutants at the site. Many of these practices incorporate some elements of low-impact development techniques (e.g., rain gardens, biorention areas, and grass swales), although others go further to incorporate smart growth principles such as changing site design practices. Incorporating these techniques can help localities not only to meet their water quality goals, but also to create more interesting and livable communities. |
|
