Marlene Feist, Utilities Communications Manager, No Phone Number Available
Tuesday, October 15, 2013 at 7:30 a.m.
We’ve been spending a lot of time talking about how to manage stormwater in our community. Stormwater, which picks up pollution as it runs across hard surfaces like streets and parking lots, is a problem because of its negative impact on the health of the Spokane River. The Spokane Riverkeeper will tell you that stormwater runoff is the greatest source of pollution in the river.
On much of the North Side of Spokane, stormwater enters the river untreated every time it rains. And on the South Side, where we have combined stormwater and sanitary sewers, a big rain can cause those sewers to overflow—sending a mix of untreated sewage and stormwater to the river.
As we consider how to reduce these flows entering the river, green infrastructure and low-impact development techniques are getting serious consideration. These techniques are designed to manage stormwater as close to where it falls as possible. And, they tie into other green infrastructure strategies being used to make developments use less energy and create other benefits.
To keep this discussion going, the City is working with a group of community partners to discuss green infrastructure, sustainable site design, and stormwater management. The seminar, titled “Spokane: Green Solutions” will be held on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Council Chambers in the lower level of City Hall, 808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Cost is $40 and includes lunch and snacks. Any proceeds will benefit the Spokane Riverkeeper.
Registration is requested by Wednesday, Oct. 16. Proof of completion is available for professionals to apply for continuing education credits.
The seminar organizing committee includes the Spokane Riverkeeper, AHBL, URS, Spokane River Forum, Spokane County Conservation District, Spokane County, the Spokane Parks & Recreation Department, community volunteers, and the City of Spokane.
We’ll keep you posted on what we learn.
