Rain is a fact of life in Washington, and it’s mostly a good thing. But rainwater can carry pollution, since water picks up everything in it’s path and eventually delivers it to the nearest waterway. Polluted runoff is called stormwater and it can carry things like oil and gas, heavy metals, fertilizers, and animal waste. Too much rain or snow can also result in flooding. Low impact development (LID) techniques mimic nature and can reduce flooding and filter pollution from stormwater. Techniques include pervious paving, rain water harvesting and storage, green roofs and rain gardens.
For publications and resources about this topic visit our Low Impact Development and Rain Gardens page.
Also be sure to check out our Training Opportunities page and WSU’s Research and Programs. To learn what others in Washington are doing see the Links and Partners page.