Desert dwellers love a good rain, but cities long considered stormwater runoff a nuisance. Cities built massive infrastructures to drain it away quickly before it could flood streets and yards. In the Phoenix Metro Area most storm drain systems empty into washes and rivers, including the Salt and Agua Fria rivers.
Now the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is pushing for change. The agency is encouraging cities to examine how they can put some stormwater to beneficial use through what EPA calls Low Impact Development. (...)
he Low Impact Development Toolkit is not just for developers. The publication also includes ideas for homeowners. Check with your city’s water conservation office for classes, videos or publications available that show you how to put rainwater to better use around your home. The Watershed Management Group also offers information and hands-on workshops.