The EPA has announced the release of a package of tools that aim to help communities take long-term approaches to manage stormwater pollution, which it says increasingly threatens public health and the environment at-large.
EPA’s tools encourage the use of techniques that spur economic growth, stimulate investment in local infrastructure, help meet water quality objectives and aid in compliance with environmental requirements.
The package of stormwater planning tools includes a step-by-step guide to help communities develop long-term stormwater plans, a Web-based toolkit for the planning process and technical assistance for communities to develop plans as national models. This approach was built on input from states, communities, industry, academia, and nonprofits.
“When communities link the timing and implementation of stormwater projects with broader planning activities, they can reduce costs and support more sustainable local development,” says Joel Beauvais, deputy assistant administrator for the Office of Water.
Communities are finding that the benefits from such approaches go well beyond helping to meet regulatory requirements and actually turn hazards into opportunities, adds EPA. Comprehensive, long-term stormwater planning can guide smart investments by tying together multiple community objectives like street improvements, outdoor open spaces, greenways and recreation areas, as well as community revitalization.
To see more information about the EPA tools, please visit the Stormwater Planning Web page.
