Soak Up the Rain
Learn More: New England Resources
Why Soak Up the Rain? 
In New England, we have a problem with too much rain running off the land. We've replaced forests and fields with buildings and pavement. And now when it rains, the water (often called runoff or stormwater) runs off our roofs and driveways into the street. It picks up fertilizer, oil, pesticides, dirt, bacteria and other pollutants as it makes its way through storm drains and ditches – untreated - to our streams, rivers, lakes and the ocean. Polluted runoff is one of the greatest threats to clean water in New England. It impacts our environment, economy, health and quality of life.
When we soak up the rain we reduce the amount of rain water runoff that flows from our properties. Soak up the rain to help:
Prevent water pollution – Soaking up the rain helps keep rain water on-site and reduce the polluted runoff going to our local waterways. It helps ensure beaches stay open and we have clean water for swimming, fishing and other recreation.
Reduce flooding – When heavy rain falls, the runoff that flows into the street can back up and cause street flooding. When we soak up the rain we help reduce the amount of water that flows from our properties into the street and the stormwater system.
Protect our water resources – When we soak up the rain we help get water into the ground. This helps keep our streams and rivers flowing and replenish the groundwater we rely on for drinking water and other uses.
Beautify neighborhoods – When we soak up the rain with trees and rain gardens in our yards and along our streets, we're adding beauty to the landscape. This helps to create more livable communities.
Save money – When we soak up the rain and reduce the runoff that flows to the street, we reduce the water to be handled by the town drainage systems. This can help lower the cost to the community for managing this water.
Where does the rain go?
Soaking Up the Rain at My Home
Our homes are part of the runoff problem. Our homes can also be part of the solution.
The next time it rains, grab your umbrella and take a walk. Watch where the rain goes.
Does it soak into the ground? Does it flow across the lawn?
Does the downspout send it down the driveway to the street?
Does it flow to a ditch or a storm drain?
How can you help soak up the rain and reduce the runoff from your property?
Rain barrels collect water from a roof downspout and hold it for later use.
Downspouts are disconnected and/or redirected so water flows to where it will soak into the ground.
Rain gardens are shallow landscaped areas that collect and filter rain water.
Trees use water and make soils better able to soak up water.
Permeable pavements allow water to soak into the ground.
Dry wells collect runoff and allow it to gradually soak into the soil.
Green roofs have a layer of plant material that captures rain water.
Some resources to help decide what's right for you:
View this animation from the Smart Waterways program in Vermont 
Bay-Friendly Backyards, Save the Bay (PDF) (10 pp, 10.8MB, about PDF)
Tips on how to make your yard more attractive, cut back on chores and improve the quality of your local waters. Includes information and links on planting a rain garden, selecting native plants (and avoiding invasives), and lawn care.
Selecting a rainscapes technique for your property, Montgomery County Maryland
Find a list of design considerations and a chart for comparing the different practices.
Absorb The Storm- Create a Rain-friendly Yard and Neighborhood, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, University of Vermont Cooperative Extension (PDF) (24 pp, 2.5MB, about PDF)
Discusses a number of steps homeowners can take, including trees, to help prevent the problems associated with runoff.
New Hampshire Residential Loading Model
A modeling tool for homeowners to calculate their "stormwater footprint", or estimate how much phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment a property contributes to the watershed. It also helps estimate the benefit of taking action to manage the stormwater on a property.
Every action counts. Join homeowners around New England who are helping to soak up the rain and reduce the runoff from their yards and driveways. Learn more. Take action. Share your photos and stories.
My Community, My Business
See what some communities are doing:
- Providence, RI Housing Authority Rain Garden Installation
- Syracuse, NY
- Milwaukee, WI
- Philadelphia, PA
Jordan Cove, CT
Ipswich River, MA
University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center
New York City, NY, Guidelines for the Design and Construction of Stormwater Management Systems (PDF) (137 pp, 6.2MB, about PDF)
Cities and towns around New England are grappling with how to manage the water that runs off roofs, roads and parking lots into the street when it rains. In many communities the stormwater systems are not designed to handle the runoff they receive. The infrastructure is aging and some communities face increasing state and federal requirements. Communities are looking for efficient, lower-cost ways to handle stormwater runoff and protect local waterways. Businesses and institutions are also seeking efficiency and economy in managing stormwater runoff - and looking to maximize the return from their investments.
Rain gardens, permeable pavement and green roofs are examples of some of the practices that are often referred to as green infrastructure. Green infrastructure, by definition, uses vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage water. Green infrastructure is increasingly being used around New England - bringing with it a range of environmental, economic and aesthetic benefits.
Join others around New England who are helping to soak up the rain. Learn more. Take action. Share your photos and stories.
Community and Business Resources
Staying Green: Strategies to Improve Operations and Maintenance of Green Infrastructure in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed (PDF) (62 pp, 3.1MB, about PDF)
A report from American Rivers in partnership with Green For All, this report examines some of the major barriers to effective operations and maintenance of green infrastructure practices in the Chesapeake Bay region and identifies strategies and best practices that local governments, practitioners, and other groups are using to develop and improve maintenance practices.
The Importance of Operation and Maintenance for the Long-Term Success of Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA (PDF) (53 pp, 2.5MB, about PDF)
A review of green infrastructure O & M practices in ARRA Clean Water State Revolving Fund Projects
EPA Green Infrastructure Permitting and Enforcement Series
A series of six factsheets on incorporating green infrastructure measures into NPDES wet weather programsPlease make the link drop to the proper section on the page
Green Values Stormwater Toolbox, Center for Neighborhood Technology
Includes links to calculators for comparing the performance, costs, and benefits of Green Infrastructure, or Low Impact Development (LID), to conventional stormwater practices.
Economic Benefits of Protecting Healthy Watersheds, April 2012 (PDF) (4 pp, 751K, about PDF)
EPA fact sheet describes studies that demonstrate protecting healthy watersheds can reduce capital costs for water treatment plants and reduce damages to property and infrastructure due to flooding, thereby avoiding future costs. Additionally, examples in the fact sheet show that protecting healthy watersheds can generate revenue through property value premiums, recreation, and tourism.
Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA
Banking on Green: A look at how green infrastructure can save municipalities money and provide economic benefits community-wide, April 2012
A joint report by America Rivers, the Water Environment Federation, the American Society of Landscape Architects and ECONorthwest focuses on the economic impacts caused by polluted urban runoff and provides a compendium of current experiences, analysis and knowledge.
A Community Guide to Growing Greener, Massachusetts Watershed Coalition
A set of guidelines for developers, designers and community boards intended to advance greener growth and cleaner water in Wachusett communities
Ipswich River Project
A project to implement and measure the effectiveness of several low impact development and water conservation demonstration projects. Includes rain gardens, permeable pavement, a green roof, and rain water harvesting with cisterns.
Protecting Water Resources and Managing Stormwater: A Bird's Eye View for New Hampshire Communities March 2010 (PDF) (52 pp, 2.8MB, about PDF)
University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center, in partnership with the UNH Cooperative Extension, has produced a new guide focused on what local communities can do to protect water resources and manage stormwater runoff.
University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center
The center's mission includes research and development of stormwater treatment systems, and providing resources to the stormwater management community.
Forging the Link, Linking the Economic Benefits of Low Impact Development and Community Decisions, 2011 (PDF) (172 pp, 19MB, about PDF)
A study conducted by UNH Stormwater Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Antioch University New England
Connecticut NEMO (Nonpoint Source Education for Municipal Officials) Program
A wide range of resources for communities, including planning tools.
Connecticut LID Inventory
Find sites around the country where rain gardens, pervious pavements, green roofs and other practices are being used to manage stormwater.
Jordan Cove Urban Watershed Project
This Connecticut project measured the effectiveness of several practices including rain gardens and permeable pavement in reducing runoff in a residential setting.
LID (Low Impact Development) for Big Box Retailers, Low Impact Development Center
Reducing Stormwater Costs through Low Impact Development (LID) Strategies and Practices
Information for cities, counties, states, private-sector developers and others on the costs and benefits of using Low Impact Development (LID) strategies and practices to help protect and restore water quality.
Rooftops to Rivers, Green Strategies for Controlling Stormwater and Combined Sewer Overflows, 2011, National Resources Defense Council
Case studies from cities employing green infrastructure
Understanding the Problem of Stormwater and Polluted Runoff
Watch and Learn
Watch the rubber ducky at Think Blue MaineWe can help soak up the rain to reduce runoff. We can also take steps to reduce the pollutants (such as dog waste, lawn chemicals, trash, oil and grease from our cars) that are carried by runoff to our streams, lakes, rivers and coastlines.
Rhode Island Stormwater Solutions
Problems and Solutions, Vermont Smart Waterways
What You Can Do as a Citizen? (PDF) (1 pg, 752K, about PDF)
After the Storm, A Citizen's Guide to Understanding Stormwater (PDF) (5 pp, 511K, about PDF)
How to soak up the rain
Learn about the many actions you can take to soak up the rain. Learn also about the factors to consider when deciding what to do in a particular situation. Information and assistance is available for homeowners, landscape designers, municipalities, planners and others from many sources.
Rain Barrels
Rain barrels capture water from a roof and store it for later use on lawns, gardens or indoor plants. Collecting roof runoff in rain barrels reduces the amount of water that flows from your property. It's also a great way to conserve water.
Watch and Learn
Many cities and towns distribute rain barrels to residents through annual sales. Other sources include online retailers, local home and garden supply stores.
Cisterns are also used to "harvest" rain water. They have a greater storage capacity than a rain barrel and may be located above or below ground.
CONNECTICUT
A Resident's Guide to Rain Barrels in Connecticut, Rainfall as a Resource, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (2 pp, 524K, about PDF)
Fact sheet describes the benefits of using a rain barrel; how to install and maintain a rain barrel; and answers to some frequently asked questions.
Rain Barrels, Reduce Runoff, Smart Ways to Reduce Harmful Effects of Stormwater Runoff, Save the Sound, Connecticut Fund for the Environment
Basic information about rainbarrels; links to some sources and a series of product reviews of different rain barrel styles.
Rainwater Harvesting Implementation Projects in Connecticut, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (9 pp, 1.1MB, about PDF)
See examples from around the state.
MAINE
Maine Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual, Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Volume III, Chapter 10 includes information about rain barrels.
MASSACHUSETTS
Rain Barrels and Other Water Conservation Tools, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Why rain barrels are important; how to install; how to make; and where to obtain a manufactured rain barrel
Massachusetts Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Manual, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Commonly called the Clean Water Toolkit, Chapter 4 includes a fact sheet on cisterns and rain barrels.
Ipswich River Project
A project to implement and measure the effectiveness of several low impact development and water conservation demonstration projects. Includes rain gardens, permeable pavement, a green roof, and rain water harvesting with cisterns.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Homeowners Guide to Stormwater Management, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
Comprehensive guide includes a fact sheet with instructions on how to install and maintain a rain barrel (PDF) (2 pp, 756K, about PDF) .
New Hampshire Residential Loading Model
A modeling tool for homeowners to calculate their "stormwater footprint", or estimate how much phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment a property contributes to the watershed. It also helps estimate the benefit of taking action to manage the stormwater on a property.
A Shoreland Homeowner's Guide to Stormwater Management (PDF) (16 pp, 1.4MB, about PDF)
The guide describes practices, including rain barrels, that shoreland homeowners can install to reduce or prevent polluted stormwater runoff from their roofs, patios, lawns and driveways.
RHODE ISLAND
Rain Barrels, Sustainable Landscaping, University of Rhode Island
Find information on how to use, build, install and maintain a rain barrel. Also find:
VERMONT
Absorb The Storm- Create a Rain-friendly Yard and Neighborhood, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, University of Vermont Cooperative Extension (PDF) (24 pp, 2.5MB, about PDF)
Discusses a number of steps homeowners can take, including rain barrels, to help prevent the problems associated with runoff.
Vermont Low Impact Development Guide for Residential and Small Sites, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (PDF) (54 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Includes instructions on how to install and maintain rain barrels. Shows design guidance for double rain barrel set up.
South Burlington Stormwater Utility Low Impact Development Guidance Manual, 2009 (PDF) (78 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Guidance includes an introduction to rain barrels.
Other Resources
Rainwater Harvesting, U.S. EPA Green Infrastructure
EPA Water Conservation Rain Barrels
Disconnect/Redirect Downspouts
Downspouts are often directed onto a paved surface such as a driveway. They may also be connected to a pipe in the ground that connects directly to the sanitary sewer or storm drain system. Downspout disconnection is the process of disconnecting the downspout from the pipe or the paved area. Water is then redirected to flow into a rain barrel, or to a lawn or garden where it can soak into the ground. Disconnecting downspouts can help reduce the amount of polluted runoff flowing to local waterways. It can also help reduce the occurrence of sewer overflows and the volumes of water requiring wastewater treatment.
Note: Downspout disconnection may not be appropriate for all locations. Consider local regulations and where you are directing the water to avoid property damage, unsafe conditions or other potential problems.
CONNECTICUT
Downspout Disconnection, Reduce Runoff, Smart Ways to Reduce Harmful Effects of Stormwater Runoff, Save the Sound, Connecticut Fund for the Environment
Basic information on why and how to disconnect a downspout; links to videos and tutorials on how.
MAINE
Downspout Disconnection, City of South Portland, Maine
Find general information on why to disconnect downspouts, site criteria, etc.
- Includes link to design specifications with guidance and instructions (PDF) (2 pp. 237K, about PDF).
MASSACHUSETTS
Downspout disconnections, allowing rain to drain to lawns, gardens, South Hadley, Massachusetts Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PDF) (1 pg, 138K, about PDF)
Fact sheet on why and how to disconnect a downspout from the sewer system
VERMONT
Absorb The Storm- Create a Rain-friendly Yard and Neighborhood, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, University of Vermont Cooperative Extension (PDF) (24 pp, 2.5MB, about PDF)
Discusses a number of steps homeowners can take, including downspout disconnection, to help prevent the problems associated with runoff.
Vermont Low Impact Development Guide for Residential and Small Sites, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (PDF) (54 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
A booklet that describes information on roof top downspout disconnection.
How to redirect a Downspout, Lake Champlain Program
Step-by-step instructions, with pictures, on how to redirect a downspout
Other Resources
Downspout Disconnection, U.S. EPA Green Infrastructure
Downspout Disconnection, How to manage stormwater, Environmental Services, City of Portland (PDF) (8 pp, 1.3MB, about PDF)
A "how to" for disconnecting downspouts. Includes information on safety considerations, how to design and disconnect, and maintenance.
Rain Gardens
Rhode Island's new rain garden sign
To adapt it for your program, contact Lorraine Joubert at ljoubert@uri.edu or (401) 874-2138
Rain gardens are depressed areas in the landscape that collect and filter water from roofs, driveways and other hard surfaces. Planted with native grasses and flowering perennials, rain gardens can be a cost effective and beautiful way to reduce runoff from your property. Rain gardens can also help:
Watch and Learn
Rain Gardens 101
New website from UConn includes instructions with video clips on how to design and install a rain garden
Rain Garden Webinar
UConn presentation introduces rain gardens, including how to pick a location, select plants and install a rain garden
EPA, YouthBuild, Greenway Conservancy Build a Rain Garden in Boston, April 2012
- filter out pollutants in runoff
- provide food and shelter for butterflies, song birds and other wildlife
- engage and educate citizens about the problem of polluted runoff and what they can do to help
Rain Garden App
A mobile app for designing, installing and maintaining a rain garden
More complex rain gardens with drainage systems and amended soils are often referred to as bioretention.
Note: Refer to the links in this section for important tips on how to locate your rain garden. These include areas to avoid and the need for accurate information about underground utilities before you begin to dig.
CONNECTICUT
Rain Gardens, A Design Guide for Connecticut and New England Homeowners University of Connecticut NEMO program
Information on siting and sizing a rain garden, design, installation and long and short term maintenance. Also includes a series of Frequently Asked Questions and a Cost Calculator for estimating the cost to install a residential rain garden.
Rain Gardens: A Design Guide for Homeowners, University of Connecticut
A colorful 12-page brochure introduces rain gardens and discusses how to plan and install them in the home landscape.
Resident's Guide to Rain Gardens, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (2 pp, 533K, about PDF)
Introduces rain gardens, including information about what they are, the benefits and some common questions.
Jordan Cove Urban Watershed Project
This Connecticut project measured the effectiveness of several practices including rain gardens and permeable pavement in reducing runoff in a residential setting.
Rain Garden/Bioretention Implementation Projects in Connecticut, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (30 pp, 4.4MB, about PDF)
See examples from around the state.
The Connecticut Native Tree and Shrub Availability List, Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (PDF) (12 pp, 256K, about PDF)
A (January 2005) native tree and shrub availability list for locating native planting stock.
MAINE
Adding a Rain Garden to Your Landscape, University of Maine Cooperative Extension (PDF) (8 pp, 1.3MB, about PDF)
Easy to read fact sheet describes rain gardens and includes tips on how to plan, design and install a rain garden. Includes designs and plant lists for sunny and shady gardens.
Adding a Rain Garden to Your Landscape, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Introduces rain gardens and includes instructions and plans on how to plan, design, install and maintain.
MASSACHUSETTS
EPA, YouthBuild, Greenway Conservancy Build a Rain Garden in Boston, April 2012
Earth Day 2012 collaboration in downtown Boston
Rain Gardens, Going Green with Stormwater, Massachusetts Audobon Society (PDF) (2 pp, 390K, about PDF)
Describes how to reduce stormwater volume from your property by building a rain garden.
Rain Gardens, Charles River Watershed Association (PDF) (2 pp, 828K, about PDF)
Fact sheet describes some of the benefits of rain gardens.
Community Guide to Growing Greener, Massachusetts Watershed Coalition (PDF) (65 pp, 2.1MB, about PDF)
Includes a listing of shrubs and trees suited for the area.
Ipswich River Project
A project to implement and measure the effectiveness of several low impact development and water conservation demonstration projects. Includes rain gardens, permeable pavement, a green roof, and rain water harvesting with cisterns.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Homeowners Guide to Stormwater Management, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
Comprehensive guide includes a fact sheet with step-by-step instructions on how to install and maintain a rain garden (PDF) (4 pp, 1MB, about PDF) .
The New Hampshire Residential Loading Model
A Shoreland Homeowner's Guide to Stormwater Management (PDF) (16 pp, 1.4MB, about PDF)
The guide describes practices, including rain gardens, that shoreland homeowners can install to reduce or prevent polluted stormwater runoff from their roofs, patios, lawns and driveways.
RHODE ISLAND
Rain Gardens: A Design Guide for Homeowners in Rhode Island, University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension (PDF) (6 pp, 1MB, about PDF)
Rain Gardens, Healthy Landscapes, University of Rhode Island
Information on how rain gardens work; recommended plants; how to design, install and maintain.
Sustainable Horticulture: Landscape Design Tools
Find a range of helpful items including Site Assessment Checklist, Native Plant Site Solutions for Backyard Habitat, and the Rhode Island Coastal Plant Guide
Rhode Island Wild Plant Society
Information about native plants and native plant nurseries
Rhode Island Stormwater Management Guidance for Individual Single-Family Residential Lot Development (PDF) (15 pp, 719K, about PDF)
Bay-Friendly Backyards, Save the Bay (PDF) (10 pp, 10.8MB, about PDF)
Tips on how to make your yard more attractive, cut back on chores and improve the quality of your local waters. Includes information and links on planting a rain garden, selecting native plants (and avoiding invasives), and lawn care.
VERMONT
Absorb The Storm- Create a Rain-friendly Yard and Neighborhood, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, University of Vermont Cooperative Extension (PDF) (24 pp, 2.5MB, about PDF)
Discusses a number of steps homeowners can take, including rain gardens, to help prevent the problems associated with runoff.
The Vermont Rain Garden Manual: "Gardening to Absorb the Storm", University of Vermont (PDF) (20 pp, 2.9MB, about PDF)
This manual explains how to choose a location for a rain garden, choose plants, install and maintain the garden. Includes plant lists.
Vermont Low Impact Development Guide for Residential and Small Sites, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (PDF) (54 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Discusses the benefits of rain gardens with instructions on siting, designing, and installing rain gardens.
Rain Gardens, Smart Water Ways, Chittendon County, Vermont
Find plant lists and step-by-step instructions.
Other Resources
Rain Gardens, Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA
Trees
Trees are valued for the beauty and many other benefits they bring to our landscapes and neighborhoods. Trees are increasingly recognized for their importance in managing runoff.
- Tree roots take up water.
- Water that lands on leaves and branches evaporates.
- Roots create gaps in the soil that help water soak into the ground.
For a brief introduction on trees and runoff
CONNECTICUT
The Connecticut Native Tree and Shrub Availability List, Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (PDF) (12 pp, 256K, about PDF)
A (January 2005) native tree and shrub availability list for locating native planting stock.
MAINE
MASSACHUSETTS
Wat'er Trees Got to Do with it?, Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation
Brief newsletter article describes how trees are important in reducing stormwater runoff.
Community Guide to Growing Greener, Massachusetts Watershed Coalition (PDF) (65 pp, 2.1MB, about PDF)
Includes listing of shrubs and trees suited for the area.
Stormwater Tree Pit, Charles River Watershed Association (PDF) (2 pp, 984K, about PDF)
Fact sheet describes these systems, including the benefits and maintenance.
Grow Boston Greener
A program to plant an additional 100,000 trees by 2020 to increase the urban tree canopy to 35% and make Boston a cooler, cleaner, healthier city. The goals of the program include improved storm water management.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Planting Trees in Designed and Built Community Landscapes
RHODE ISLAND
Sustainable Horticulture: Landscape Design Tools
Find a range of helpful items including Site Assessment Checklist, Native Plant Site Solutions for Backyard Habitat, and the Rhode Island Coastal Plant Guide
Rhode Island Coastal Plant Guide
A reference for those involved in the design and management of coastal landscapes
VERMONT
Absorb The Storm- Create a Rain-friendly Yard and Neighborhood, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, University of Vermont Cooperative Extension (PDF) (24 pp, 2.5MB, about PDF)
Discusses a number of steps homeowners can take, including trees, to help prevent the problems associated with runoff.
Main Streets to Green Streets, Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (PDF) (2 pp, 4.2MB, about PDF)
Fact sheet describes some of the issues and benefits of using trees in managing stormwater in our downtowns.
Urban Tree Canopy, Watershed Management, Vermont Agency of National Resources
Some basic information and links about urban trees to help manage stormwater
Vermont Tree Selection Guide (PDF) (28 pp, 3.7MB, about PDF)
A guide to help citizens match trees to sites to achieve lasting shade.
Other Resources
Urban Tree Canopy, Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA
Permeable Pavement
Permeable pavement allows rain and snowmelt to seep through the surface and into the ground. Available in asphalt, concrete, interlocking pavers, and other materials, permeable paving can:
Watch and Learn
- Permeable Pavements for Stormwater Control Webinar Presentation
- Suitability during New England winters
A series of presentations on design and performances of porous surfaces.
See permeable pavement at work:
- capture and soak in up to 80 to 100 percent of the rain that lands on it
- filter out pollutants in rain water runoff that contribute to water pollution
- reduce the need for road salt by up to 75 percent, by absorbing rainwater and snow melt before it freezes
- reduce construction costs for residential and commercial development by reducing the need for drainage features
CONNECTICUT
A Resident's Guide to Pervious Pavement in Connecticut, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (2 pp, 562K)
Introduces pervious pavements, including information on how it works, the types and benefits, and residential applications.
Permeable Pavements for Stormwater Control Webinar Presentation, University of Connecticut
Presents information on why permeable pavements are used, the advantages and disadvantages of different types, installation, maintenance, and costs.
Pervious Pavement Implementation Projects in Connecticut (PDF) (20 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
See examples from around the state
Permeable Pavements, Reduce Runoff, Smart Ways to Reduce Harmful Effects of Stormwater Runoff Save the Sound, Connecticut Fund for the Environment
Basic information on permeable pavements; includes a link to cost comparison information.
Jordan Cove Urban Watershed Project
This Connecticut project measured the effectiveness of several practices including rain gardens and permeable pavement in reducing runoff in a residential setting.
Connecticut Stormwater Manual, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Chapter 11 includes information on permeable pavement (PDF) (4 pp, 890K, about PDF).
MASSACHUSETTS
Hurd Field Porous Pavement Education Project
The Town of Arlington, Massachusetts and the U.S. EPA New England regional office are collaborating on a project to retrofit the Hurd Field parking lot and educate community members and municipal officials about the benefits of using porous pavement to improve water quality. The Hurd Field Porous Pavement Project consists of resurfacing a majority of the parking lot with porous pavement to infiltrate rain and reduce runoff to the adjacent Mill Brook. Visit the website to learn more about the project and see pictures before, during and after construction.
Permeable Paving, Massachusetts Low Impact Development Toolkit Fact Sheet #6, Metropolitan Area Planning Council
Factsheet describes types of permeable paving, their benefits and limitations, maintenance, design details and cost.
Massachusetts Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Manual, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Commonly called the Clean Water Toolkit, Chapter 4 includes a fact sheet about permeable pavement.
Ipswich River Project
A project to implement and measure the effectiveness of several low impact development and water conservation demonstration projects. Includes rain gardens, permeable pavement, a green roof, and rain water harvesting with cisterns.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Homeowners Guide to Stormwater Management, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
Comprehensive guide includes instructions for installing a pervious walkway and patio (PDF) (4 pp, 576K, about PDF) .
New Hampshire Residential Loading Model
A modeling tool for homeowners to calculate their "stormwater footprint", or estimate how much phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment a property contributes to the watershed. It also helps estimate the benefit of taking action to manage the stormwater on a property.
University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center
Find a range of information about permeable pavements, including design specifications, water quality benefits, and performance in cold climates.
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island Stormwater Management Guidance for Individual Single-Family Residential Lot Development (PDF) (15 pp, 719K, about PDF)
VERMONT
Vermont Low Impact Development Guide for Residential and Small Sites, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (PDF) (54 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Includes a review of the benefits and limitations of permeable pavement.
South Burlington Stormwater Utility Low Impact Development Guidance Manual, 2009 (PDF) (78 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Guidance includes an introduction to porous pavement including design criteria and maintenance.
Other Resources
Permeable Pavements, Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA
Dry Wells
Dry wells are underground systems that help infiltrate water into the soil. They're often used to collect rain water from roofs, especially where space is limited. Dry wells can be constructed by the homeowner or a hired contractor.
Note: State environmental programs regulate the installation of dry wells in order to prevent contamination of groundwater. Although in most cases regulations do not apply to single family homeowners, depending on the location and property type, the state may require a simple registration or a permit. Check with your state agency at the contacts noted below before beginning work on a dry well.
CONNECTICUT
Dry Wells, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (4 pp, 167K, about PDF)
Fact sheet provides details for siting a dry well.
State Contact:
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Chris Stone - chris.stone@maine.gov - 860-424-3850
MAINE
Dry Wells: Managing Roof Runoff from Homes with Gutters, Portland (ME) Water District (PDF) (1 pg, 271K, about PDF)
Overview of how to construct and maintain a dry well; why a dry well can be useful for property preservation.
State Contact:
Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Peter Cooke - peter.cooke@maine.gov - 207-791-8101
MASSACHUSETTS
Infiltration Trenches and Dry Wells, Massachusetts Area Planning Council
Details on how to construct a dry well; benefits and limitations; how a dry well helps water quality.
Massachusetts Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Manual, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Commonly called the Clean Water Toolkit, Chapter 4 includes a fact sheet with dry well information.
State Contact:
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Joe Cerutti - joseph.cerutti@state.ma.us - 617-292-5859
NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire Homeowner's Guide to Stormwater Management Do-It-Yourself Stormwater Solutions: Dry Well, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (PDF) (2 pp, 595K, about PDF)
Simple overview of how to construct and maintain a dry well; why a dry well can be useful for property preservation.
A Shoreland Homeowner's Guide to Stormwater Management (PDF) (16 pp, 1.4MB, about PDF)
The guide describes practices, including dry wells, that shoreland homeowners can install to reduce or prevent polluted stormwater runoff from their roofs, patios, lawns and driveways.
State Contact:
New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
Mitch Locker - mlocker@des.state.nh.us - 603-271-2858
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island Stormwater Management Guidance for Individual Single-Family Residential Lot Development (PDF) (15 pp, 719K, about PDF)
State Contact:
Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
Ernie Panciera - Ernie.Panciera@dem.ri.gov - 401-222-4700 Ext. 7603
VERMONT
Low Impact Development Guidance Manual, South Burlington Stormwater Utility (PDF) (78 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Includes information about dry wells.
The Vermont Stormwater Management Manual, Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (PDF) (119 pp, 5MB, about PDF)
Includes some information about dry wells.
State Contact:
Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Cindy Parks - cynthia.parks@state.vt.us - 802-241-3831
Other Resources
New Jersey Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual: Standard for Dry Wells,
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (PDF) (7 pp, 295K, about PDF)
This short manual provides an overview of the purposes for a dry well, siting characteristics, operation, and maintenance.
Green Roofs
Green roofs have a layer of plant material that absorbs water like a sponge. Green roofs capture water when it rains, slowly releasing it through evaporation and plant use. Green roofs can significantly reduce the amount of rain water that would otherwise run off an impervious roof surface. Additional benefits of green roofs can include:
- increased energy efficiency
- reduced noise levels
- increased durability and lifespan of the roof compared to conventional roofs
Note: Structures must be able to support the loading of green roof materials under fully saturated conditions.
CONNECTICUT
Residents Guide to Green Roofs, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (2 pp, 534K, about PDF)
Introduces green roofs, including information on the types and benefits, and residential applications.
Green Roof Implementation Projects in Connecticut, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (PDF) (21 pp, 3.4MB)
See examples from around the state.
Green Roofs/Blue Roofs, Reduce Runoff, Smart Ways to Reduce Harmful Effects of Stormwater Runoff, Save the Sound, Connecticut Fund for the Environment
Basic information on green roofs and blue roofs; includes a schematic and local projects.
Connecticut Stormwater Manual, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Chapter 4 includes information on green roofs (PDF) (21 pp, 2.4MB, about PDF) .
MAINE
Maine Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual, Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Volume 3, Chapter 10 includes information about green roofs.
Casco Bay Estuary Partnership
Links to information about several green roofs in the area of Casco Bay.
MASSACHUSETTS
Green Roofs and Stormwater Management, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Information on green roof benefits and costs.
Massachusetts Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Manual, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Commonly called the Clean Water Toolkit, this manual includes factsheets and tools to help residents, towns and businesses choose practices to protect water quality. Chapter 4 includes information about green roofs.
Ipswich River Project
A project to implement and measure the effectiveness of several low impact development and water conservation demonstration projects. Includes rain gardens, permeable pavement, a green roof, and rain water harvesting with cisterns.
Green Roof, Charles River Watershed Association (PDF) (2 pp, 622K, about PDF)
Defines a green roof and summarizes benefits, costs, and other elements.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
A Green Roof Grows in Manchester
Information, including a video and slide show on the green roof on City Hall in Manchester, New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Stormwater Manual, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
Volume 2, Chapter 4 includes information on green roofs.
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island Stormwater Design and Installation Standards Manual, Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Coastal Resources Management Council (PDF) (487 pp, 11MB, about PDF)
Chapter 5 contains information about green roofs.
VERMONT
Green Roofs, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, Watershed Management Division
Basic information about green roofs.
Vermont Low Impact Development Guide for Residential and Small Sites, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (54 pp, 4.7MB, about PDF)
Includes some basic introductory information about green roofs.
Other Resources