Stormwater Management
When it rains, water washes over our roofs, driveways, sidewalks and other hard surfaces. Along the way, it can pick up a variety of pollutants, such as pesticides, oil, metals, chemicals and soil. This polluted stormwater eventually drains into our rivers and streams. The pollutants can endanger the water quality of our waterways, making them unhealthy for people, fish, and wildlife. Runoff from our homes and driveways also causes erosion, increases river temperatures and decreases groundwater recharge. Better management of stormwater helps us protect our streams and rivers. The Backyard Habitat Certification Program will help you identify green strategies to address stormwater on your property.
Online Stormwater Resources
General Stormwater Information
- East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District: www.welcometherain.org
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services:
Publications
Stormwater Solutions Manual
Maintaining a Residential Stormwater Facility (pdf)
Stormwater Planters
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: Contained Planters- info and installation (pdf)
Canopy Trees
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: Trees - benefits and maintenance (pdf)
Rain Gardens
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: How to Make a Rain Garden (pdf)
- East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District: Rain Gardens
Downspout Disconnection
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: Downspot Disconnection Program
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: Basics of Downspout Disconnection (pdf)
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: How to Disconnect Downspouts (pdf)
Pervious/Impervious Surfaces
- Bureau of Environmental Services: Pervious Pavement and Asphalt (pdf)
Ecoroofs
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: Ecoroofs - benefits and info (pdf)
- City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services: Ecoroofs Q & A - info and installation (pdf)
Integrated Pest Management (IMP)
- Oregon State University Extension: Gardening with Fewer Pesticides: Using Integrated Pest Management
