green roofs

There has been a generational shift in the way our communities perceive, understand, and value the benefits of stormwater management. Gone are the days when the only mention of stormwater were decals on curb storm inlets. Gone too is the idea that low impact development measures are merely an option. As major storm events occur with greater frequency, often with infrastructure damage, people can see for themselves the ripple effects created by inadequate environmental measures and thoughtless development. “Optional” to “Required” During my two decades as a landscape architect, I have seen growth in the public’s understanding and appreciation of sustainable development practices. As jurisdictions increase requirements, developers continue to evaluate the cost-benefit of stormwater management measures such as bio-retention facilities, rain gardens, green roofs, and retention/detention ponds, to name a few.   These measures: reduce runoff, slow rainwater to mitigate erosion, and filter contaminants. And, while a civil engineer typically designs stormwater systems, the job of those in landscape is becoming more robust than ever before. The basic idea of balancing hardscape with the right amount of landscape maximizes usage, value, flexibility, and performance. Not only are these projects some of the most cost effective, they can bring additional value. The recognition that landscape design can change the positioning of otherwise utilitarian stormwater functions opens up possibilities. Stormwater management becomes an opportunity for enhancement, rather than a byproduct of construction. With appealing plant palettes and layouts that enhance the pedestrian experience, stormwater elements can often do double or triple ...