|
|
|
Links to Low Impact Development Programs, Tools and Research
What is LID?
Low Impact Development (LID) is an innovative stormwater management approach with a basic principle that is modeled after nature: manage rainfall at the source using uniformly distributed decentralized micro-scale controls. LID's goal is to mimic a site's predevelopment hydrology by using design techniques that infiltrate, filter, store, evaporate, and detain runoff close to its source.
Techniques are based on the premise that stormwater management should not be seen as stormwater disposal. Instead of conveying and managing/treating stormwater in large, costly end-of-pipe facilities located at the bottom of drainage areas, LID addresses stormwater through small, cost-effective landscape features located at the lot level. These landscape features, known as Integrated Management Practices (IMPs), are the building blocks of LID. Almost all components of the urban environment have the potential to serve as an IMP. This includes not only open space, but also rooftops, streetscapes, parking lots, sidewalks, and medians. LID is a versatile approach that can be applied equally well to new development, urban retrofits, and redevelopment/revitalization projects.
The Low Impact Development Center is a clearinghouse for LID research, planning, and design The Stormwater Manager’s Resource Center provides tools for local jurisdictions to protect their watersheds and to enhance and restore their local water resources The Puget Sound Action Team website includes the Top 10 internet resources for LID The Whole Building Design Group explains the difference between conventional stormwater design and LID The US Environmental Protection Agency has a web page on Polluted Runoff (Non Point Source) with LID links “10,000 Rain Gardens” is a non-governmental organization in Kansas City to have 10,000 rain gardens National Resources Defense Council offers background and strategies for LID US Department of Housing and Urban Development provides a detailed document intended to assist the housing industry during the land development process Rappahannock Regional PDC’s website on Low Impact Development US Green Building Council’s site on LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification and site design NEMO (Non-point Education for Municipal Officials), provides information, education and assistance to local land use boards and commissions in Connecticut, on how they can accommodate growth while protecting their natural resources and community character.
|
|
|
