Low Impact Development, LID

Registration's Open for the 2011 LID Technical Workshop Series

2011-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Registration is now open for the next round of Puget Sound LID Technical Workshops!

This workshop series, brought to you by WSU Extension and the Puget Sound Partnership, covers all aspects of LID, including:

Bioretention siting, sizing, design, modeling, performance and maintenance
Permeable paving specifications, installation, performance and maintenance needs for pervious concrete, porous asphalt, interlocking pavers, and grid systems
Vegetated roof design, construction, modeling and performance
Rainwater harvesting design and construction
Low impact foundation design and construction
Site planning and preparation
Site assessment
Plan review
Erosion and sediment control, LID construction sequencing, and inspection

Workshop Dates
May 3-4, 2011 - Bioretention
May 17-18, 2011 - Permeable Paving
May 31-June 1, 2011 - Vegetated roofs, low impact foundations, and rainwater collection
June 14-15, 2011 - Site planning, erosion and sediment control, plan review, and inspection

Cost
The workshop series consists of four 2-day classes. Best of all (or at least really, really good): Each class costs only $110. And that includes all materials and food and beverage.

Why so cheap? Thank the Puget Sound Partnership, which is subsidizing registration to keep it really inexpensive and accessible to as many professionals as possible.

Puget Sound Action Agenda
This technical workshop series helps implement a key near-term action in the Puget Sound Action Agenda, which is to continue to transition the region to the LID approach and provide assistance to make it happen.

Location
As in 2010, all workshops will be held at the new LID Research Center on the campus of WSU Extension in Puyallup. Holding the classes there allows us to show students the wonderful array of bioretention and permeable pavement that's being meticulously monitored there. (If you've not visited WSU Puyallup yet, you'll be impressed by all of it - trust me.)

LID Certificates
WSU Extension, WSU Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Puget Sound Partnership will again offer LID certificates to those who attend all four classes and pass a series of tests. This certificate program has value - it demonstrates that the holder has a good understanding of the LID approach and techniques.

Registration
You do need to pre-register, and classes do fill up. Register at: http://conferences.wsu.edu/lidworkshops

Hope to see you there!

Local Government Rain Garden Programs: Seattle's

2010-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

The City of Seattle started a rain garden reimbursement program this year. To start, they're targeting combined sewer overflow (CSO) basins; specifically the Ballard CSO basin. It is very expensive to build CSO control structures and the city is seeking to reduce CSO events and volumes in the most cost-effective way. The city envisions expanding the program to other basins in the future.

The city's program is called the Residential RainWise Program. Here's how it works:
Residents who live in the Ballard CSO basin are eligible for rebates for installing rain gardens and cisterns. Rain gardens have to be installed by a licensed contractor and city staff need to do pre and post-construction inspections. The city will reimburse up to $4 per square foot of impervious surface directed to it. This is anticipated to be 90-100% of total installation costs.

For more information see: http://www.rainwise.seattle.gov

Local Government Rain Garden Programs: Puyallup's

2010-12-14T12:57:00.000-08:00

In a previous post, I talked about Kitsap County's program that provides financial incentives to property owners to install rain gardens.

I think this is a very good direction for our region - if we can replace significant portions of turf and impervious surfaces with numerous distributed, small-scale rain gardens (both on residential and commercial properties) I think we can really reduce overall surface volumes, peak flows, and many contaminants. In basins with combined sewer overflows, we can significantly reduce overflow events and volumes, and begin to reach state goals in a more cost-effective manner. We can begin to address runoff from existing development, which is an overwhelming, expensive, and needed action. We can better protect commercial and recreational shellfish growing areas from bacteria-laden runoff from developed lands. We can systematically beautify neighborhoods. We can strategically target 303(d) listed waterbodies and salmon streams threatened by runoff. And we can engage and empower citizens in our protection and recovery efforts.

In the next few postings, I'll highlight other local government rain garden programs.

Next up: The City of Puyallup's ongoing series of rain garden installations. Here's how their program works: The city seeks 6-8 adjacent neighbors who are willing to install rain gardens in their front yards. They seek neighborhoods in drainages that have documented water quality issues.

In September they completed their third such installation. They installed rain gardens at six homes in a neighborhood that drains to Clarks Creek, which has a fecal coliform TMDL and is undergoing a dissolved oxygen TMDL. The creek is also an active salmon spawning stream.

When installations occur, the city turns it into a community event and teaches about other key issues, like natural lawn care and fish friendly car washing. They also install storm drain markers and plant riparian areas. At the September event Ciscoe Morris broadcast his radio show from the site. The installations are fully subsidized by the city.

Three more installation events are planned for the next year.

For more information about the city's rain garden installation events see: http://www.cityofpuyallup.org/services/development-services/puyallups-stormwater-management-program/puyallup-rain-gardens/

For more information about future events, contact Tim Parham at tparham@ci.puyallup.wa.us or call (253) 841-5556. For information on volunteering at installation events and other stormwater-focused events, contact Melissa Buckingham with the Pierce Stream Team @ melissab@piercecountycd.org or call (253) 845-2973.

Ecology Announces Draft Funding List

2010-11-22T13:50:00.000-08:00

Last year's state legislature appropriated about $50 million in new money to Ecology to dole out to local governments for a) NPDES permit program implementation; and b) stormwater retrofits and LID. With input from several key groups, Ecology chose to divide those monies roughly in half between these two, large needs.

Regarding retrofits using LID, Ecology's Water Quality Financial Assistance group evaluated 100 proposals they received, equaling nearly $59 million. Based on their evaluations, Ecology plans to fund 43 projects equaling $23.4 million.

Puget Sound jurisdictions did quite well: Of the 43 projects proposed to receive funding, 38 are located within the Puget Sound basin.

LID features pretty well in these projects, too. I haven't read through the full project proposals, but in reading the Project Summaries contained within the Draft Offer and Applicant List, I found language on LID techniques in 26 of the project summaries. There may well be more or less LID used in these retrofit projects - the project summaries are brief.

Ecology is seeking public comment on this draft offer list. Comments are due by December 3rd.

If you're interested in seeing this draft offer list, see:

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/funding/FundingPrograms/OtherFundingPrograms/StWa12/FY12StWa.html

If you're interested in commenting on the draft list, follow Ecology's instructions. Ecology will review and consider comments and provide a response to comments in the Final Offer and Applicant List, due to be released in mid-January.

View Comments on Ecology's Draft LID Standards Proposal

2010-11-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Interested in reading the comments the Department of Ecology received on their draft LID standards proposal? Click on the link below.

Remember - This is the process where two broad-based advisory committees met October 2009 to August 2010 to advise Ecology on precisely how and when to add LID requirements to municipal NPDES permits. Ecology took this on in response to the Pollution Control Hearings Board rulings directing them to require LID where feasible (rather than merely allow and encourage LID) in the permits.

See: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/LIDcomments.html

Kitsap County LID Sizing Tool

2010-11-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

For all of you working to size LID facilities: Here's a link to Kitsap County's latest iteration of their LID sizing tool.

Creators of the tool say that the spreadsheet tool guides users through the selection and sizing of pre-designed BMPs for use in the county. And: This version provides a project information box at the top of the sheets and includes some clarification on the minimum aggregate depth of permeable pavement.

See: http://www.kitsaphba.org/LID/resources.html

Free Training Available for Seattle Contractors and Design Professionals

2010-11-01T15:24:00.000-07:00

Are you a licensed contractor or design professional that does work in Seattle? Seattle Public Utilities and UW Botanic Gardens are teaming up to offer free training on installing rain gardens and water cisterns. Space is limited, so contact them fast.

Rainwise: Installing Rain Gardens and Cisterns
Date: Tuesday November 9, 2010

For more information see: http://depts.washington.edu/uwbg/education/stormwater.shtml

Note: This web site contains lots of materials from past trainings on an assortment of stormwater-related subjects - check it out.

University of Washington Certificate in LID

2010-08-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Last year UW started a new, extensive certificate program in low impact development. The multi-month certification program included all the key info and details on LID, taught by several talented instructors. UW's offering the program again this year, and it will start this Fall. Below is their press release on it, and there's still space available.

Expand your technical skills with training in Low Impact Development (LID), a sustainable design approach to stormwater management. Explore the design process and implementation of LID projects and become familiar with environmental regulations that may impact execution. Learn about practical applications of LID and gain project experience by participating in field trips and a design charette. Developed in partnership with the UW Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering. Instructors: Dustin Atchison (Water Resources Engineer, CH2M HILL), Wayne E Carlson (Associate Principal, AHBL, Inc.), and Greg Giraldo (Senior Civil Engineer, SvR Design Company). Apply now to start this fall. For more info, visit http://www.pce.uw.edu/prog.aspx?id=4079 or call 206-685-8936 or 888-469-6499.

Kitsap County's Innovative Rain Garden Cost Share Program

2010-08-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

Installing rain gardens as part of new construction, or as part of a redesign of a lawn at an existing home, can be a terrific idea. Rain gardens at homes reduce runoff and pollutants from lawns, recharge local aquifers, ensure sufficient water in streams for salmon and other fish, and beautify one's property.

Kitsap County's Surface and Stormwater Program has a program going to reimburse homeowners up to 50% (up to $500 total) for costs of installing a rain garden. The Kitsap Conservation District is managing the program, and providing technical assistance to interested homeowners.

Here's an article from the Kitsap Sun on the innovative program. Kudos to Kitsap County and the Kitsap Conservation District!

http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2010/aug/19/kitsap-conservation-district-helps-gardeners-put/

Does your local government have a rain garden cost share program? If it does, I'd love to hear from you! Email me at bruce.wulkan@psp.wa.gov

Rainwater Catchment Workshops in Seattle in September

2010-08-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

The American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) will hold a one day basic workshop in Seattle on September 7th and a two day advanced workshop, again in Seattle, on September 8-9.

The basic workshop is a good starter class while the advanced workshop covers more of the nuts and bolts and best practices for designing and building rainwater catchment systems. The advanced workshop will also cover regulations, health issues, stormwater issues, working with building officials, and more.

ARCSA is now a US Green Building Council educational provider and the advanced workshop will count toward continuing educational credits.

The workshops will be held at:
King Street Center
8th Floor Conference Room
Seattle

The workshops are hosted by King County Public Health and King County Solid Waste Division.

For more information, including how to register, see: http://www.arcsa.org/

Kitsap LID Training Video Available

2010-08-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

This may be old news to many, but for those who haven't seen it...

Art Castle and his colleagues have developed a video of two training sessions held in Kitsap County in late 2009 on the LID Guidance Manual, A Practical Guide to LID Implementation in Kitsap County, June 2009. This was the multi-year effort led by Art (of the Kitsap Home Builders Foundation) in concert with all the local governments in Kitsap County, O'Brien and Associates, Herrera Environmental, and many others.

Tune in to the video at: http://www.kitsaphba.org/LID/training-videos.php

The Kitsap County LID web site is at: http://www.KitsapLID.org

New Report from the Partnership on the LID Local Regulation Assistance Project

2010-06-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

During 2005-09, the Partnership and its predecessor, the Action Team, provided technical assistance to 36 cities, towns and counties to help them add LID to their codes, regulations and standards. The Partnership did this through its contractor, AHBL. The assistance resulted in detailed recommendations that included new ordinances, revised ordinances, engineering standards, and other information.

The Partnership contracted with CH2M Hill this Spring to conduct an independent survey of the 36 local governments. The survey assesses progress in adopting recommendations, progress in implementing LID through multiple means, barriers to implementation, and suggestions for overcoming barriers.

This survey report of LID implementation under the LID Local Regulation Assistance Project is now available on the Partnership's web site. To download the report, see the link under Low Impact Development at: http://www.psp.wa.gov/.

Rain Garden Workshops in King and Pierce Counties

2010-02-22T17:55:00.000-08:00

Interested in rain gardens? Want to learn how to design and build one? Then you have to attend one of these upcoming, very cool rain garden workshops presented by Stewardship Partners in King and Pierce counties.

Rain gardens look great AND they help the environment. They soak up nasty pollutants AND help manage the deluges of rain we usually have in the rainy season. What's not to like??

Advance registration is required, but it's just a suggested donation of $10. For that you'll get great training, a free rain garden manual, and other materials. For all details, please see:

http://www.stewardshippartners.org/raingarden_workshops.html

Final Report Now Available of the Kitsap LID Standards Project

2010-02-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, Art Castle of the Homebuilders Association of Kitsap County and Kitsap Homebuilders Foundation took on the monumental task of trying to bring uniform LID standards to Kitsap County and the four incorporated cities within the county (Bremerton, Port Orchard, Bainbridge Island and Poulsbo).

With lots of help from a large leadership team, Art has completed that task, as the county and four cities now all share uniform LID standards. Read all about it in the project final report.

http://www.kitsaphba.org/LID/uploads/Final%20Report%20Narrative.pdf

2010 International Low Impact Development Conference

2010-02-03T13:16:00.000-08:00

The 2010 International Low Impact Development Conference is coming to San Francisco, California from April 11-14, 2010. The conference will highlight new and continuing work on LID, including research, development projects, and community adoption of LID throughout the U.S. and abroad. New this year are pre-conference workshops, a community service event, and dinner at a landmark restaurant on Fisherman's Wharf. Technical tours to sites that demonstrate successful applications of LID are also planned.

For more information on LID 2010, including how to register, exhibit or sponsor, please visit: http://content.asce.org/conferences/lid10/

Registration Now Open for the 2010 WSU/Partnership LID Technical Workshop Series

2010-01-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

Registration is now open for the 2010 WSU/Partnership LID technical workshop series. Did you miss any of these great classes in 2007-09? If so, you may want to take that class now, during February - April. Or you can take the class in 2011, as the same classes will also be offered next year.

The classes are state of the art, led by Curtis Hinman of WSU and a host of guest lecturers. Each class is about two days in length, and virtually all aspects of LID are covered, from site planning through design, modeling, construction, performance, and maintenance.

Certificates will again be offered to individuals who take all four classes and complete an exam.

The Partnership is providing funding   to keep registration low (only $110 per two-day class, including all materials, breakfasts and lunches!)

2010 Class schedule: 
Bioretention - February 10th-11th 
Permeable Paving - March 3rd-4th 
Green Roof, Low Impact Foundations & Rain Water Collection - March 16th-17th 
Site Planning, TESC, Plan Review, and Inspection - March 31st-April 1st  

Note: All classes will be held this time at the WSU research center in Puyallup. This is actually an advantage, as the Puyallup campus now has numerous bioretention and pervious paving plots, thanks to a generous grant to the City of Puyallup from Ecology.

For more information about the classes, including how to register, please see: http://capps.wsu.edu/lidworkshops/default.aspx  .

This is a great opportunity to receive state of the art training on virtually all aspects of LID at a very reasonable cost!

Ecology offers $3 million to support stormwater projects of regional and statewide significance

2010-01-07T11:42:00.000-08:00

On December 10th, Ecology released its list of lucky (and qualified) recipients of grants for stormwater projects of regional and statewide significance. Ecology received 28 proposals totaling more than $6.7 million. From this list, and with $3 million in funding to dole out, Ecology chose 15 projects to fund, totaling $2,980,831.

The projects funded are varied, and should move our region forward in a number of critical areas in stormwater management.

Two projects will provide new technical research, coordination, and review of emerging technologies to advance stormwater management (filling the void created when the TAPE process suffered budget cuts; and filling the need for a stormwater technology center).

Three projects will provide training for stormwater staff and homeowner associations in operations and maintenance of stormwater facilities.
One project will develop a tool to validate monitoring data for Phase I permittees including the Washington Department of Transportation, and for future widespread use.
Five projects will educate key audiences, such as businesses, in need of guidance and technical assistance.
Two projects will allow for the purchase of pricey stormwater maintenance equipment (high efficiency street sweepers) that will be shared among neighboring jurisdictions.
One project will provide a new construction field guide for Eastern Washington.
One project will develop a sizing tool for LID techniques in Western Washington, and expand the available precipitation time-series.

These projects should significantly help us improve how we manage stormwater, both in the Puget Sound region and throughout the state.

For more information see: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/MuniStrmwtrFunding.html

EPA now accepting proposals for $10 million in grant funds

2009-11-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

The U.S. EPA is now accepting proposals for $10 million in grant dollars targeted specifically to protect and restore Puget Sound watersheds.

Tribes, local governments and special purpose districts are eligible to apply directly for funding. Proposals must be submitted by January 5, 2010. EPA is holding a workshop to answer questions about the solicitation and grant program criteria on Monday, November 16, 2009 at 1:00 pm.

Low impact development is listed as one of the eligible projects.

For a copy of the request for proposals, information about the public meeting, and other information about how to apply, please see:

http://yosemite.epa.gov/r10/water.nsf/Office+of+Water/WEI09RFP

For questions about the RFP, please contact Dan Steinborn at Steinborn.Daniel@epa.gov.

Whidbey Island CD Develops New Guidance for Homeowners

2009-11-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

The Whidbey Island Conservation District, with funding from Island County Public Health and the Department of Ecology, has released a new educational publication for homeowners. The document covers many aspects of protecting water quality through greener landscaping and home maintenance practices, and use of simple low impact development techniques.

Download "Living Responsibly in Your Community: Homeowner's Guide to Protecting Our Water Resources" at: http://whidbeyislandconservationdistrict.farming.officelive.com/Documents/LRYC.for.web.pdf

First Meeting of Ecology-led LID Standards Process Goes Well

2009-10-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Thus far, this site has been primarily dedicated to announcing upcoming LID-focused workshops and conferences, availability of new LID resources, and similar items of interest to those of us interested in and involved with the implementation of LID in Puget Sound.

I'd like to deviate a bit from this, and editorialize a little by reporting that, in my eyes, the first meeting of the new Ecology-led, EPA Region 10-funded LID Standards Process on October 13th went well. Ecology staff and their facilitator did a good job of describing the estimated eight-month long process of meetings, teeing up at least some of the big issues the two advisory committees will grapple with, and allowing committee members to enumerate their issues and interests in regards to LID regulation and implementation. http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/LIDstandards.html

In my mind, this has been an evolutionary process, where we started back in about 2000 simply educating regional professionals about LID, encouraging (or directing) them to allow and encourage LID in local stormwater and land development codes, and encouraging the use of the LID approach and techniques in new development and retrofit projects. This "allow and encourage" initial foray into LID was warranted at the time, as LID was relatively new to our region, we had few projects and fewer monitoring data points to learn from, and we had limited understanding of LID site analysis, design and installation of techniques, maintenance needs, and performance.

We've come a long way in LID implementation since 2000, and now, in 2009 we have many projects that have incorporated bioretention, soil amendments and permeable pavement. We have fewer projects utilizing rooftop rainwater harvest, but they're out there, particularly up in the San Juans where water's tougher to find. And with Ecology's recent directive that rainwater harvest will not be linked with water rights at least for the foreseeable future, the doors are wide open to the increased use of rainwater harvest, which can be a terrific tool to help maintain a site's predevelopment hydrology. We have vegetated or green roofs, but not that many, especially compared to our neighbors, Portland and Vancouver, BC. We should have more. And we've barely touched the surface of using minimal excavation foundation systems, which go a long way in minimizing site compaction and protecting pre-development hydrologic patterns.

We now have a cadre of knowledgeable engineering firms ready to help local governments and private project proponents use numerous LID techniques. Many local governments, led by Seattle Public Utilities, have good experience with various techniques, and an assortment of technical and educational resources that we can all use. Local conservation districts help landowners use LID techniques to improve drainage issues. Last but certainly not least, we have WSU Extension doing great training, LID certification, and monitoring, and UW offering a professional LID certificate program.

It's no wonder the Puget Sound region is considered one of the top areas of the country in LID.

Framed against this growing knowledge and experience base is the body of evidence that Puget Sound's in serious trouble, and stormwater is one of the biggest threats to the Sound. We've done a lot to manage stormwater, we're doing a lot every day, but... we need to do more, and science and monitoring show we need to do things differently.

And so we move into this new realm of LID being required, where feasible. And now begins the Ecology-led, EPA-funded, multi-party process to develop LID standards, definitions, criteria for feasibility, and Clean Water Act NPDES permit implementation.

As I said, the first meeting, on October 13th, went well. I'm fortunate enough to sit on both advisory committees, the technical and implementation committees, and I look forward to helping the process along. Periodically, I'll report out on this site. Stay tuned - it should prove interesting and rewarding as we move forward.

Free Workshops on the Kitsap LID Guidance Manual and How to Use it

2009-10-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

Workshops offered in November on the new Kitsap LID Guidance Manual
"Water & Prosperity: A Low Impact Approach to Development"

Workshop Dates:
1) Friday, November 6th, Poulsbo Fire Station, Poulsbo, 1 pm-4:30 pm
2) Tuesday, November 10th, Givens Community Center, Kitsap Room 8:30 am - Noon

Understand how LID works and why developers, jurisdictions, design professionals, contractors, and the general public should encourage its implementation.

Become familiar with and able to use the Kitsap Low Impact Development Guidance Manual.
Understand the science and engineering principles behind LID and how this is reflected in LID design/modeling tools.
Learn how to use the NEW Kitsap LID Spreadsheet Modeling Tool.
Become familiar with best practices for LID implementation including at the planning, design, construction stages.
Become familiar with strategies that enable LID implementation, through ordinance compliance, incentive policies.
Learn about additional resources to assist in LID implementation.

Workshops are free, but please RSVP to workshop organizers so they can plan accordingly. Specify which workshop you're attending, and include your name, company and email address.

HBA of Kitsap County
5251 Auto Center Way Bremerton, WA 98312
(360) 479-5778 FAX (360) 479-0313
E-mail: acastle@kitsaphba.com

Video Broadcast Sept 15 - Stormwater Management: One Backyard at a Time

2009-09-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

The Pacific Northwest Water Program, partnering with WSU Extension's video department, will bring a glimpse of what private citizens, city/county governments, and agencies are doing to prevent polluted runoff from rushing to water resources.

Curtis Hinman, WSU Extension, and other speakers will be featured, and a Puget Sound example will be included.

Broadcast details: Stormwater Management - One Backyard at a Time
Date: September 15 , 2009
Time: 9:00 - 11:30 am

For more information see: http://eces.wsu.edu/video/stream.html

Ecology Announces New Stormwater Retfofit and LID Grant Program

2009-09-11T12:41:00.001-07:00

This from the Department of Ecology this week:

Statewide Stormwater Retrofit and LID Grant Program

The 2009 Washington State Legislature appropriated funding for Ecology to develop the Stormwater Retrofit and LID Grant Program (SWRLID). The Legislature designated $4.609M in grant dollars to assist statewide local governments with retrofitting existing stormwater facilities and/or implementing low-impact development techniques in new and re-development projects.

This grant program is offered to Washington state eligible public bodies.

Eligible public bodies include any Washington state county, city, town, conservation district, or other political subdivision; municipal or quasi-municipal corporation; federally recognized tribe; or Washington state institution of higher education, provided that the project is not included in that institution’s statutory responsibilities.

The application period for the Stormwater Retrofit and LID Grant Program is open from September 1, 2009 – December 1, 2009.

A document which outlines the funding criteria, important workshop dates, and deadline dates can be found at the following link:

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/funding/2011/FY2011SWRLIDfundingFramework.pdf

The FY2011 Combined Funding Cycle Application will be used to apply for the SWRLID Program. The application can be found at the following link: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/funding/funding.html

For questions regarding this funding program, please contact:

Patricia Brommer
Financial Management Section
Water Quality Program
(360) 407-6216

patricia.brommer@ecy.wa.gov

King County's GreenTools Training Goes to Redmond

2009-08-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

King County's September 15th GreenTools training session will take place at Redmond City Hall.

The county's Steve Foley and WSU Extension's Curtis Hinman will present, along with city staff. City staff will present on the city's Grass Lawn Park LID Demonstration Project. The demonstration project includes permeable asphalt, a green roof, rain gardens, tree retention, and compost amended soils. The city is monitoring the performance of the various LID techniques and reporting back to the Department of Ecology, who funded the project. Monitoring is being led by Herrera Environmental Consultants.

Anisha Prasad, the City's project manager for the post construction monitoring of the LID features in the park will speak, and then lead a tour in the park at the conclusion of the County's workshop. The tour will begin in the lobby of Redmond City Hall, September 15, 2009 at 1:00 PM, and is open to the public. Tour attendees will travel by personal vehicle to Grass Lawn Park. Carpooling is recommended.

You can learn more about Grass Lawn Park at: http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/publicworks/LID/GrasslawnParkDemoProject.asp.

Here's a link to the GreenTools web site: http://your.kingcounty.gov/solidwaste/greenbuilding/

Ecology Grant and Loan Cycle to Open Soon

2009-08-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Department of Ecology has several pots of money available for grants and loans for LID and stormwater projects, and the window to apply for a grant and/or loan is about to open.

Ecology's Centennial/State Revolving Fund/Section 319 funds will start accepting applications September 1st. According to Ecology staff, one part of Centennial is reserved for stormwater-only projects. In addition, there is a new grant program for LID and retrofit projects that should total around $4 - 4.5 million.

There are four workshops in September on these funding opportunities, two in Puget Sound: September 23rd in Tacoma, and September 29th in Everett. For more information see Ecology's web site: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/funding/2011/index.html

*** Please Note: The 2010-11 guidelines on this web site do not yet include info on the new retrofit and LID program. Ecology staff say that info will be added to the guidelines, and the web site, shortly.

ALSO:

In addition to the above grants and loans, Ecology is seeking proposals from local governments covered by the NPDES municipal permit to undertake stormwater projects of regional or statewide significance. Proposals are due to Ecology by October 14, 2009.

In the request for proposals, Ecology lists a number of projects they are most interested in funding: Stormwater technical center, coordinating evaluation of emerging technologies (i.e., renewing the TAPE process), permittee training, cooperative equipment purchase (like a high efficiency sweeper), regional public education and outreach, new templates or models, cooperative mapping, cooperative recordkeeping, and permit collaboration and coordination.

A total of $3 million is available. For more information see: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/MuniStrmwtrFunding.html

Ecology Sets First Meeting to Develop LID Standards

2009-08-28T13:55:00.001-07:00

The Department of Ecology has set the first meeting for the LID Standards Process. The process consists of two facilitated committees (technical and implementation) that will advise Ecology on LID definitions, standards, and other key information needed to add LID to the NPDES municipal stormwater permits.

The first meeting will take place in Tacoma on October 13, 2009. The process is envisioned to take about 8 months, but this could be adjusted.

Membership of the two committees is now set, and as expected is broad-based and inclusive.

Funding for the LID Standards Process comes from EPA Regional 10. The Partnership is assisting Ecology in this effort.

For more information about this important regional process, see: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/LIDstandards.html

Deadline for Submitting Abstracts has been Extended

2009-08-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

The LID Steering Committee has decided to extend the deadline to submit abstracts for presentation at the 2010 LID Conference for two additional weeks, until Wednesday, August 26.

The conference will be held April 11-14, 2010 in San Francisco.

According to committee members, the response has been good, but they would like to see even more papers come in; therefore, they're extending the deadline for abstracts.

For more information, please see the conference web site: http://content.asce.org/conferences/lid10/index.html

Green Roof Workshop by Patrick Carey

2009-08-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

The Bremerton Parks & Rec Department is hosting a free Green Roof Workshop at Blueberry Park, in Bremerton, on Friday August 14th, starting at 12:45 pm. The park's grand opening will follow at 2 pm.

Patrick Carey (Trainer for Green Roofs for Healthy Cities) will lead the workshop. This is an opportunity to learn about the environmental beneﬁts of green roofs, planning, and installation.

The workshop will take place at Bremerton’s newly developed Blueberry Park, where a 600 sq ft. green roof has just been completed.

Mr. Carey is the principal of Hadj Design, a design and building ﬁrm devoted to the research and development of green roofs in the United States and Canada.

Blueberry Park is located at 737 Sylvan Way, Bremerton. Overflow parking is available at Sylvan Way Baptist Church at 900 Sylvan Way.

For more information please contact the Bremerton Parks and Recreation Department at 360-473-5305

Note: This project is one of 10 LID demonstration projects funded by the Department of Ecology with funding from the state legislature. In addition to a green roof at Blueberry Park, there is also pervious pavement and rain gardens. For more information about the LID demonstration grant projects, see: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/funding/lidprojects.html

Use FeedBurner to Receive Alerts of New Postings

2009-07-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

Why keep checking this page to see if there's a new posting? Use FeedBurner instead to receive alerts of all new postings in your inbox. Just fill in your email, hit subscribe, and you'll receive new postings in your inbox. And I absolutely promise - you will not receive any junk mail from this site!

Rain Garden Installation Workshops around Puget Sound

2009-07-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

Pitch in, help beautify a community, and learn how to build a rain garden

Help Stewardship Partners build rain gardens at four locations in King County and five locations in Pierce County. Join a hands-on workshop and learn all you need to design and install a beautiful rain garden at your home. Installations run 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. For more info, including dates and locations, see: http://www.stewardshippartners.org/raingarden_workshops.html

Workshops in King County are sponsored by the King County Rain Garden Partnership: Stewardship Partners, King County, Seattle Public Utilities, King Conservation District, Seattle Tilth, WSU/Native Plant Salvage Project

Workshops in Pierce County are sponsored by the Pierce County Rain Garden Partnership: Stewardship Partners, Chambers-Clovers Watershed Council, Pierce Stream Team, Puyallup River Watershed Council, Pierce County Public Works, and WSU/Native Plant Salvage

Stewardship Partners also has started a “Rain Garden Central” web page, with basic info about rain gardens and, for purchase, a beautiful, color poster of a rain garden. See: http://www.stewardshippartners.org/raingarden_central.html

2010 International LID Conference Seeks Abstracts

2009-07-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Sponsors of the ASCE-led 2010 International LID Conference, "Redefining Water in the City", are seeking abstracts for presentations until August 12, 2009.

The conference will be held April 11-14, 2010 at the Westin San Francisco Airport Hotel, in beautiful San Francisco.

If your paper is accepted, a final paper will be due by December 10, 2009.

Registration for the conference is scheduled to open this fall.

I attended the 2008 conference in Seattle, and it was excellent.

For more information about the 2010 conference, including how to submit an abstract, see: http://content.asce.org/conferences/lid10/index.html

Ecology is Developing Low Impact Development Standards

2009-07-21T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Department of Ecology’s Water Quality Program is initiating a process to develop definitions and standards for low impact development (LID) stormwater requirements in the Phase I Municipal Stormwater General Permit.

The Pollution Control Hearings Board (PCHB) ruled in August 2008 that Ecology must add requirements to the Phase I permit that apply to local governments covered under the permits. The PCHB ruled in February 2009 that Ecology begin to prepare Western Washington Phase II permittees for future implementation of LID. Ecology is convening this stakeholder advisory process to develop recommendations for those requirements.

EPA Region 10 funded Ecology to conduct an eight-to-ten month process to develop recommendations from two advisory committees: a technical advisory committee and an implementation advisory committee. At the end of the process, Ecology will make a decision on permit requirements and will amend the Phase I permit to include them. It will determine the timing to include LID requirements in a future Western Washington Phase II permit. Ecology also expects to incorporate these standards in the Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington.

The Puget Sound Partnership (PSP) calls for these standards as a priority action in the 2008 Puget Sound Action Agenda. The PSP LID program has led the region in advancing LID, and is partnering with Ecology in this process.

Ecology is seeking nominations for members of the two advisory committees until July 27, 2009.

For more information about the process, including the advisory committee nomination form, see: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/LIDstandards.html

Apply Now to Start the Certificate in Low Impact Development This Fall

2009-07-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

UW's LID Certificate Program is Now Accepting Applications:

Currently UW's accepting applications for the University of Washington Certificate in Low Impact Development program starting in fall 2009. We encourage you to apply early to ensure a timely review of your materials.

For more information about the application process, visit us online. http://www.extension.washington.edu/ext/certificates/lid/lid_gen.asp. We've updated our Web site to include new information on courses, admission requirements, and more. If you have any questions, give UW a call or send an email.

Gain Expertise in Low Impact Development
The Certificate in Low Impact Development will help you expand your technical skills in sustainable stormwater management. You'll explore the design process and implementation of LID projects and become familiar with environmental regulations that may impact execution. You'll also learn about practical applications of LID and gain project experience by participating in field trips and a design charette.

Courses:
Foundations of Low Impact Development
Practical Applications of LID
Implementing LID Projects
Instructors:

Dustin Atchison, M.S., P.E.
Water Resources Engineer, CH2M HILL

Wayne E. Carlson, AICP, LEED AP
Associate Principal, AHBL, Inc.

Greg Giraldo, P.E.
Senior Civil Engineer, SvR Design Company
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Get Started This Fall
We are now accepting applications for fall 2009. Space is limited - apply now.

Forward to a Friend
Know someone who might be interested in the LID certificate? Spread the word by forwarding this message.

Check Out the Rest
Visit us online to choose from more than 100 professional and continuing education opportunities designed for working adults.

Contact:
Phone: 206.685.8936 or 888.469.6499
Email: extnadvising@
extn.washington.edu

Snohomish County LID, restoration project tour set for June 24

2009-06-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

Come see for yourself what integrated planning can do to retain a natural setting through comprehensive low impact development with intentional community values, innovative green building techniques and environmental improvements based on the restoration of North Creek, an important endangered-salmon habitat.

What: Brown Bag Workshop and Site Tour – Plans will be presented for the New Clearwater Commons, a 16-unit low impact development, and a stream restoration project along one-quarter mile of North Creek.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 24
Where: Clearwater School, 1510 – 196th St. S.E., Bothell
For more information: http://www.sustainablesnohomishcounty.org/

Puyallup Seeks Landowners Interested in a Rain Garden

2009-06-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

The City of Puyallup plans to find 6 local homeowners interested in installing a rain garden on their property on the weekends of August 15-16 and August 22-23, 2009. The city, in partnership with Stewardship Partners and Pierce Conservation District, will provide the plants, materials, and technical expertise to install the rain gardens.

"Gardening with Ciscoe", a popular radio show, will be aired at one of the installations on Saturday, August 22, 10 am - 1 pm.

Interested? Contact Tim Parham, City of Puyallup Development Services Department at (253)-841-5556 or tparham@ci.puyallup.wa.us.

2009-06-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

Ecology Approves Kitsap's New LID Cookbook

From the Kitsap Sun:
"What has been called a "cookbook" for building low-impact stormwater projects in Kitsap County has been endorsed by the Washington Department of Ecology.

The "guidance manual" is expected to assist developers and engineers who design with low-impact development principles, according to Art Castle, executive director of the Home Builders Association of Kitsap County. When designs comply with the manual, engineers for city and county governments should be able to approve applications more quickly, he noted.

To draft the guidance manual, Castle worked with state and local building officials and government engineers along with private engineers and developers. The city of Poulsbo was the first to adopt the guidelines. The county and the other three cities in Kitsap are expected to adopt it in the coming weeks.

A letter from Ecology's Bill Moore speaks highly of the outcome of the two-year planning effort."

To continue reading: http://www.kitsapsun.com/news/2009/jun/07/new-145manual-will-guide-design-of-stormwater/

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop in Bellingham May 28-29

2009-05-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

The American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (ARCSA) is holding a 2-day workshop/accreditation workshop in Bellingham on Thursday and Friday May 28 & 29 at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. All facets of rainfall catchment will be covered and sessions will be interactive. The presenters are Billy Kniffen, ARCSA's treasurer, Texas Agrilife, rainfall specialist and ARCSA's chief training officer, Tim Pope, ARCSA's President, and Anitra Accetturo, an ARCSA board member and water conservation specialist for the City of Bellingham.

Register at: www.arcsa.org.

Green roof workshops in Seattle and Bellingham

2009-05-04T15:04:00.000-07:00

Seattle - May 16th - noon – 5 pm
Bellingham – May 23rd – noon – 5 pm
Cost: $25.00 - includes a chance to win the green roof doghouse made during the workshop!

Learn about the dozens of benefits that a green roof can add to any sized building, from doghouses to warehouses. Benefits include: storm water mitigation, longer roof lifespan, temperature/heat island regulation, insulation, habitat benefits, water and air purification and much more.

Watch a real installation on a dog house that will be given away in a drawing to one lucky workshop participant!

Patrick Carey is director of the Northwest EcoBuilding Guild's Green Roof Project. He is also a trainer for the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities Green Roof Course series and principal of Hadj Design, a green roof design-build company.

Learn more.

For Seattle Workshop, contact Sarah Krueger to register.
For Bellingham Workshop, contact Jason Darling to register.

EPA Green Infrastructure Webcasts

2009-04-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

EPA's sponsoring a series of webcasts on managing stormwater through green infrastructure (aka LID or Green Stormwater Infrastructure). Check them out. If you can’t watch them live, they're supposed to be archived within about 3 weeks.

http://www.epa.gov/npdes/outreach_files/webcast_flyer_green_infrastructure.pdf

UW Still Seeking LID Course Instructors for Professional Certificate Program

2009-04-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

UW's extending the application deadline -

In response to the growing need for sustainable design practices and protection of ecological systems, the University of Washington has developed the new Low Impact Development Certificate. The certificate will be awarded to students who complete three 30-hour courses taught over nine-months. The program is slated to start in autumn 2009 and will be located in the Seattle area.

We are looking for applications from professionals in the Low Impact Development (LID) field to teach in the program. Preferably we will have a unique instructor for each course to provide students with a range of knowledge and skills required to do LID. We are looking for instructors who have been working in the field for 5+ years and can bring in-depth knowledge of the course topics.

The three courses and their descriptions are:

Foundations of Low Impact Development (Autumn 2009)
Explore the history of LID as a stormwater management strategy. LID science and research, environmental laws and policies, and the business case for LID will be addressed. This three hour course is held weekly for 10 weeks.

Practical Applications of LID (Winter 2010)
Through lecture and field trips, students will gain an in-depth understanding of regulations, permit review, site assessment, and LID design. This course consists of five weekday evening meetings and two Saturday field trips.

Implementing LID Projects (Spring 2010)
Study LID construction, project timelines and sequencing, and inspection and verification. You will also learn how to monitor and maintain LID projects. This course consists of five weekday evening meetings and two Saturday field trips.

To apply please send a resume and a one page cover letter describing why you are qualified to teach Low Impact Development principles to other professionals. Include both LID project and teaching experience. Please also indicate which course(s) you would like to teach. If you are qualified to teach more than one course please indicate which one you would prefer to teach if given the choice.

Please email this information to mamrhein@extn.washington.edu. We will contact qualified candidates for phone interviews as applications are received. Applications submitted by April 24th will be given preference.

For more information please see the program web site.
http://www.extension.washington.edu/ext/certificates/lid/lid_gen.asp

2008 LID Local Regulation Assistance Program Recommendations Now Available!

2009-03-31T13:59:00.000-07:00

The latest set of recommendations, provided to 13 local governments in the Puget Sound basin, are now available. You can read summaries of the assistance on our web site or you can request a free CD of the complete recommendations. 2008 marked the third year of this type of assistance, and thanks to the legislature, we were able to help more local governments than ever. The detailed recommendations include revised ordinances, new ordinances, engineering drawings, maintenance recommendations, and more.

Following a competitive process, AHBL was selected to provide the assistance. AHBL worked with teams of local government staff to assess local needs and identify specific regulations and development standards to review and revise. The overall goal of the project is to ensure that all local regulatory barriers to the LID stormwater management approach are removed. Each community then chose whether to simply allow LID, more actively encourage LID, or require LID for certain types of projects or projects in certain geographical areas.

For more information see: http://www.psparchives.com/our_work/stormwater/lid/lid_regs.htm

NEW Bioretention Soil Mix Guidelines for Western Washington

2009-03-31T13:44:00.000-07:00

BIORETENTION SOIL MIX REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WESTERN WASHINGTON, a Technical Memorandum prepared by Curtis Hinman, WSU Extension Faculty, for the Puget Sound Partnership, January 2009.

The soil mix used in bioretention systems is central for determining flow control and water quality treatment performance. The purpose of this study is to provide bioretention soil mix (BSM) guidelines that: 1) meet performance objectives; 2) include materials readily available in the Puget Sound region; 3) include materials that aggregate and compost suppliers can provide with adequate quality control and consistency; and 4) are affordable.

The focus of this study is on the aggregate component of the BSM. Four candidate aggregate samples were collected from various suppliers and locations around Puget Sound. Laboratory analysis was conducted to determine aggregate gradation, as well as the organic matter content, hydraulic conductivity, cation exchange capacity, and available phosphorus of a specified aggregate compost bioretention soil mix.

Download the document at: http://www.psparchives.com/our_work/stormwater/stormwater_resources.htm#bio

LID Technical Workshop Classes in Seattle are Now Full!

2009-03-31T13:17:00.000-07:00

The last round of LID Technical Workshop Classes, presented by WSU Extension Pierce County and funded by the Partnership, are now, unfortunately, full. However, WSU is taking names for a waiting list. The four-part series of classes cover all aspects of LID, and are probably the most extensive training on LID in the nation. They begin in April and run through May. LID certificates are now available by taking all four classes and passing open-book exams.

The Partnership hopes to be able to fund more professional trainings of this kind next year.

For more information see: http://capps.wsu.edu/conferences/lidworkshops/

Whidbey Conservation District Sponsors LID Tour on Whidbey Island

2009-03-31T12:31:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 17th, 10 am –3 pm, Oak Harbor
Low Impact Development (LID) Tour
You’re invited –but space is limited, sign up today!

Low Impact Development or LID is an emerging stormwater management strategy encouraged and becoming adopted by our Island County municipalities and local government. This tour is your opportunity to:

Learn more about LID practices to filter and treat stormwater runoff
See local examples from Oak Harbor down to Langley and hear from those involved in the planning, design and/or construction
Discuss and learn from the early adopters in our community

To sign up for the FREE LID TOUR please go to www.whidbeycd.org/lidtour.htm--for more information call 360-678-4708. Whidbey Island Conservation District

UW Seeking Low Impact Development Course Instructors for Professional Certificate Program

2009-03-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

In response to the growing need for sustainable design practices and protection of ecological systems, the University of Washington has developed the new Low Impact Development Certificate. The certificate will be awarded to students who complete three 30-hour courses taught over nine-months. The program is slated to start in autumn 2009 and will be located in the Seattle area.

We are looking for applications from professionals in the Low Impact Development (LID) field to teach in the program. Preferably we will have a unique instructor for each course to provide students with a range of knowledge and skills required to do LID. We are looking for instructors who have been working in the field for 5+ years and can bring in-depth knowledge of the course topics.

The three courses and their descriptions are:

Foundations of Low Impact Development (Autumn 2009)
Explore the history of LID as a stormwater management strategy. LID science and research, environmental laws and policies, and the business case for LID will be addressed. This three hour course is held weekly for 10 weeks.

Practical Applications of LID (Winter 2010)
Through lecture and field trips, students will gain an in-depth understanding of regulations, permit review, site assessment, and LID design. This course consists of five weekday evening meetings and two Saturday field trips.

Implementing LID Projects (Spring 2010)
Study LID construction, project timelines and sequencing, and inspection and verification. You will also learn how to monitor and maintain LID projects. This course consists of five weekday evening meetings and two Saturday field trips.

To apply please send a resume and a one page cover letter describing why you are qualified to teach Low Impact Development principles to other professionals. Include both LID project and teaching experience. Please also indicate which course(s) you would like to teach. If you are qualified to teach more than one course please indicate which one you would prefer to teach if given the choice.

Instructors are provided with a stipend of $3500 to teach each course.

Please email this information to mamrhein@extn.washington.edu by 5pm March 31st, 2009. No phone calls please. We will start initial contact with potential instructors the week of April 6th via phone interviews.

For more information please see the program web site.
www.extension.washington.edu/ext/certificates/lid/lid_gen.asp

Bioretention Soil Mix Guidelines for Western Washington

2009-03-19T10:16:00.000-07:00

BIORETENTION SOIL MIX REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WESTERN WASHINGTON, a Technical Memorandum prepared by Curtis Hinman, WSU Extension Faculty, for the Puget Sound Partnership, January 2009

Water and Land Use in the Pacific Northwest: Integrating Communities and Watersheds

2009-03-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

November 4 – 6, 2009
Skamania Lodge • Stevenson, Washington
This regional conference merges the best available water science and land-use knowledge to promote collaboration between scientists, planners, and decision makers on sustainable land-use methodologies. The agenda was developed in response to comments from previous water quality-based conference participants who stressed the need to plan future development in ways that would protect and improve water resources. The conference will include presentations, featured speakers, panel discussions, and a poster session. For more information and expanded theme topics visit our Web site at www.swwrc.wsu.edu or call 509-335-5531.

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
Deadline for Abstracts: May 6, 2009
Abstracts should address one or more of the conference themes. Oral presentations and posters will be selected by the steering committee from abstracts received by May 6, 2009. Submit your abstract by e-mail to watercenter@wsu.edu or by fax to 509-335-1590. Abstracts are limited to 500 words; do not include headers, footers, tables, figures, graphics, photos, or references. Include the name, affiliation, and complete contact information of the submitter (e-mail address, mailing address, and phone number). If there are coauthors, indicate the
primary contact. Indicate whether the abstract is for an oral or poster presentation. Visit the conference web site for further details www.swwrc.wsu.edu.

Puget Sound Low Impact Development Technical Workshop Series

2009-03-06T13:56:00.000-08:00

Registration is now open for the LID Technical Workshop Classes in Seattle; they begin in April and run through May. Developed by WSU Extension Pierce County and funded by the Partnership, this four-part series covers all elements of low impact development.
Learn more

2008 LID Local Regulation Assistance Project is Completed

2009-02-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

Partnership Helps 13 Local Governments Add LID to Development and Stormwater Codes. The 2008 LID Local Regulation Assistance Project recommendations are completed!
Learn more

You can reduce stormwater runoff in Puget Sound

2009-02-18T13:06:00.000-08:00

Maintain your car or truck. Never dump anything down a storm drain. Always recycle used oil, antifreeze and other fluids. Fix oil leaks in your vehicles.
Wash your car at a commercial car wash rather than in the street or in your driveway. If you wash your car at home, wash it on your lawn.
Drive less. Leave your car at home at least one day each week and take a bus, carpool or bike to work. Combine errands when you drive. Get vehicle emissions checked and repaired. Buy a low emission vehicle. Less vehicles on the road means less emissions and runoff.
Cut down on fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. If you use these chemicals, follow directions and use them sparingly. Don't fertilize before a rainstorm. Consider using organic fertilizers. Let your lawn go golden brown in the summer months; it will rebound in the fall. Compost or mulch lawn clippings. Preserve existing trees or plant new ones. Trees hold rainfall and help manage stormwater.
Remove part or all of your lawn. Lawns require a lot of watering, mowing and caring. Replace part of your lawn with native, drought-resistant plants. Add compost to planting soil and dress it with mulch to improve plant growth and reduce stormwater runoff.
If you are on a septic system, maintain the system. Septic systems require regular inspections, maintenance and pumping, or they will fail, cost a lot of money to fix and could pollute nearby lakes and streams. Have a professional inspector check your system regularly and have it pumped out when needed.
Pick up after your pets and keep animals out of streams. Scoop your dog's poop and properly dispose of it. Also, make sure fences and other structures are keeping cows, horses and other animals out of streams. Compost manure in a designated area so that it doesn't wash off into nearby waterways.
Reduce impervious surfaces at home and increase the vegetated land cover of your property. Impervious surfaces include your roof, driveway, patios and lawn. Reduce rooftop runoff by directing your downspouts to vegetated areas, and not to the storm drain on your street. For your driveway and patios, consider putting in permeable paving or patterns of cement and brick that allow water to filter through it.
Support your local storm or surface water program. Programs to maintain a community's stormwater system, prevent flooding and protect natural resources may cost money in the short run but save money for damages to public and private property in the long term. Take advantage of opportunities to educate yourself and your family about your local watershed. Consider volunteering for stream restoration or other local volunteer projects.
Make smart growth choices. Choose to live in a neighborhood that provides you with all conveniences: low maintenance homes and lawns, nearby shopping, walking paths, easy-access to buses and trains, and green, open spaces to enjoy.

Learn more at www.psp.wa.gov/stormwater.php

What are the benefits of LID?

2009-02-12T16:33:00.000-08:00

When combined with other key elements of a comprehensive local stormwater program, effective land-use planning under the Growth Management Act and watershed or basin planning, LID can help communities more efficiently and effectively manage stormwater, and protect their water resources.

LID can help better protect the environment. LID techniques remove pollutants from stormwater, reduce the overall volume of stormwater, manage high storm flows, and —or replenish—streams and wetlands.
LID can help reduce flooding and protect property. Reducing impervious surfaces, increasing vegetation and dispersing and infiltrating stormwater results in less runoff. This reduces the likelihood of flooding from big storms.
LID helps protect human health by more effectively removing pollutants from stormwater. Untreated stormwater can be unsafe for people to drink or swim in.
LID protects drinking water supplies by ensuring that rainfall infiltrates where it can recharge aquifers, rather than being treated as a waste and discharged to marine waters.
LID is good for the economy. LID can help protect shellfish growing businesses, water quality and marine sediment quality. This ensures that our resources remain clean and Puget Sound remains a great place to operate a business and attract employees. Taxpayers don’t have to pay for expensive cleanup efforts for polluted waters and sediments. And because LID projects in many cases are less expensive to build, it means that developers and builders can often save money on overall development costs by using LID.
LID provides cost-effective alternatives to systems upgrades. Land developed prior to the 1990s usually provides little, if any, stormwater treatment. In many cases, LID systems, such as bioretention, are much less expensive to use than costly stormwater vaults or land-consuming stormwater ponds.
LID can increase the appearance and aesthetics of communities. LID projects leave more trees and plants and have less impervious surfaces, which makes for greener developments and communities.
LID can increase public safety. One of the hallmarks of LID is more narrow streets. Studies show that when vehicle traffic is slowed, there are fewer pedestrian accidents and fatalities.

Learn more about Low Impact Development in Puget Sound