American Rivers to Host Local Officials on Green Infrastructure Tour

Local public officials from Northwest Ohio will join American Rivers staff tomorrow on a tour through Chicago and Milwaukee to show off the cities' commitments to green infrastructure. The tour will begin in Chicago at the Center for Green Technology and end at the Johnson's Park neighborhood in Milwaukee.

"American Rivers is pleased to welcome Lucas County, Wood County, and Toledo public officials and employees to take part in these discussions about how we can better manage our water," said Katie Swartz of American Rivers. "We are committed to helping local leaders improve water infrastructure in Northwest Ohio, and to ensuring clean water for our communities."

The officials will tour green infrastructure demonstration projects and learn about implementing these natural stormwater solutions. Discussions will center around funding and policy issues and site visits will include everything from green roofs to water treatment facilities.

Green infrastructure is a cost-effective way to make smart investments to protect the water our communities rely on. Green infrastructure encompasses large-scale techniques, such as wetland and stream buffer conservation, to small-scale practices, such as rain gardens, green roofs, and rain barrels. These green practices are often more effective and less expensive than traditional stormwater controls and enhance the effectiveness of traditional infrastructure by diverting stormwater from overburdened pipes and reducing sewer overflows. In addition to mitigating the effects of more intense floods and droughts wrought by global warming, green infrastructure provides multiple related benefits by beautifying communities, creating jobs, and reducing temperatures.

"Clean water is the lifeblood of our communities. It is essential to our health, economy, and quality of life," said Swartz. "Green infrastructure is the key to ensuring a clean water supply and healthy rivers, lakes and streams."