Green infrastructure for stormwater management is being adopted across the continent. Unlike single-purpose gray stormwater infrastructure, which uses pipes to dispose of rainwater, green infrastructure uses vegetation and soil to manage rainwater where it falls. By weaving natural processes into the built environment, green infrastructure provides not only stormwater management, but can also improve air quality and help mitigate flooding.

The utilization of bio swales, permeable pavements, rain gardens, bio retention cells and constructed wetlands improves water quality and enhances a community’s aesthetic– but requires a well thought-out maintenance plan. Crew activities can include bank stabilization, vegetation management, debris removal, pollutant and litter collection in addition to pipe and storm drain maintenance.

This session will explore how some communities are meeting the challenges of maintaining green infrastructure. Content will include information on the International BMP Database, what to include in written maintenance plans, performance data monitoring, training and education for employees or volunteers, compliance mechanisms and funding sources for maintenance.

After viewing this program, participants will be better able to:

Determine resource needs for managing green infrastructure
Communicate advantages of green infrastructure to staff and community
Integrate maintenance into the design of best management practices

This program has been approved for .2 CEUs or 2 PDHs. Please note there is a $7 fee per non-member individual requesting CEUs - there is no fee for members.

Nikki Guillot CSM

Program Manager, APWA

Appearances