An Introduction to Green Infrastructure Practices
- First Paragraph:
- Stormwater runoff occurs when rain or snowmelt flows over hard surfaces such as roads, driveways, and parking lots, instead of soaking into the ground. Stormwater runoff collects pollutants such as heavy metals, nutrients, sediment, and pathogens as it flows to the storm sewer system and is discharged to local waterways without treatment. Historically, municipalities have managed their stormwater utilizing “gray” infrastructure practices made up of gutters, basins, and pipes that transport stormwater quickly to local streams, rivers, and lakes. Many municipalities struggle to maintain this aging stormwater infrastructure due to lack of funding. The result is frequent flooding and nonpoint source pollution degrading local watersheds.
- Publication Number:
- FS1197
- Author(s):
- Amy Rowe
Michele Bakacs
- Publisher:
- Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension
- Date Published:
- 12/5/2012
- Tags:
- stormwater runoff, infiltration, bioretention, green roofs, green infrastructure
