MEC, in conjunction with Smart Growth America, is preparing to host a "Smart Growth for Clean Water" forum to bring together local government officials, development professionals and local environmental leaders to discuss the use of Smart Growth techniques to protect water resources and comply with Federal Phase II Stormwater Regulations.

The conference is scheduled for February 24, 2005, at the Kellogg Center on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing. Participants will design a local growth toolbox that will not only provide Smart Growth site design techniques and implementation strategies, but also resources for new, low-cost green infrastructure techniques to deal with stormwater runoff.

As a growing body of research shows, there are severe problems associated with impervious surfaces caused by low-density, single-use, auto-dependent development-also known as urban sprawl. Increased amounts of impervious surface affect land's natural ability to absorb, filter and store rainfall. Water resources, including drinking water, aquatic ecosystems and coastal areas, suffer as a result.

EPA guidance documents, model permits and the Phase II final rule published in April 1999 suggest that Smart Growth techniques like brownfield redevelopment, open space preservation, cluster zoning and purchase of development rights (PDR) programs are viable, cost-effective solutions for managing stormwater.

SAVE THE DATE!

"Smart Growth for Clean Water"
Conference
February 24, 2005

Kellogg Center
Michigan State University, East Lansing

For more information, call Ben at (517) 487-9539
or e-mail benmec@voyager.net