Smart Growth for Clean Water

Polluted stormwater runoff is one of the nation's leading threats to clean water. Rain and snowmelt running over parking lots, roofs, over-fertilized lawns and open construction sites wash dirt, chemicals and bacteria into the water we drink. Communities across Michigan are developing plans to comply with federal stormwater reduction requirements. Smart Growth tools can help Michigan communities find their own, unique ways to address the water quality impacts of land use changes, development and stormwater runoff.

Smart Growth tools & publications

"You can protect the Great Lakes and build a stronger coastal community with Smart Growth strategies." Download brochure.

Winter 2007 Phase II local watershed presentations. View presentations.

"Developing Our Coastlines: Four Michigan Communities Take Stock of Their Great Lakes Assets" Download MEC report.

Smart Growth for Clean Water conference, held on February 24, 2005, in East Lansing, MI. Includes a conference summary and many presentations.
Visit website.

U.S. EPA's "Using Smart Growth Techniques as Stormwater Best Management Practices" and "Protecting Water Resources with Higher-Density Development": www.epa.gov/smartgrowth

Smart Growth America's "Choosing Our Community's Future: A Citizen's Guide to Getting the Most Out of New Development": www.smartgrowthamerica.org

"Smart Growth Techniques for NPDES Phase II Stormwater Management Compliance in Michigan" - Download report.

Michigan Land Use Leadership Council findings and research reports: www.michiganlanduse.org