Nutrients in Stormwater - Article from the Miami Herald

Many views exist on nutrients in stormwater - the causes, the solutions, the impacts and more.  I believe it is always good to read and understand different perspectives.   The Miami Herald Article here contains many thoughts - and depending upon how the reader makes his or her livelihood and their respective eco-political views - they may or may not agree.

Miami Herald Article - NEW EPA WATER RULES WORTH EVERY PENNY

However, we here in Florida will be faced with a new statewide Unified Stormwater Rule this year and/or EPA's version of the same.

As Floridians, we should take the time to understand the factors contributing to how our rivers and lakes and waterbodies became the focus of environmental attention, and become proactive in keeping our natural resources in a healthy state - leave our planet a better place than when we arrived.

Environmental responsibility and clean water - lets all do our part - beginning wiht uinderstanding the issues...

Kevin

The 0h Decade...and Stormwater

An Interesting Perspective and Commentary on Stormwater and the New Year (Decade)..

Below is an excerpt from the Sacremento Bee..

We must develop new, innovative sources of water supply, including massive groundwater recharge, the complete reuse of treated wastewater, local rainwater harvesting and environmentally and economically sound desalination of both seawater and brackish water. We must price water properly to encourage efficient use and appropriate allocation. And we must reform and enforce water rights allocations.

To read the entire article click the LINK...

Kevin

Atlantis Green City Video Clip - Great Green and Sustainable BMP and Site-Building Design Video

Though the above video is longer, the information contained within on Green Cities and what I call volumetric and vertical green - make it well worth the time taken to view the information.

You can call 800-448-3636 for additional information on all of Atlantis' products.

Living Walls by Atlantis Corp of Australia - Vertical Green

Here is an interesting video of Atlantis Water Management System's Living Wall Concept. The design is solid, especially as the frame is made from 95% Post-Consumer recycled material - good LEED Compliant stats.

There are a few options I'd recommend - such as setting the living wall frame off from the stucco wall by at least 4 - 6 inches and seal any penetrations for anchors with a good low VOC sealant. Add a moisture/water barrier such as a HDPE sheet to the back of the vegetated frame.

Irrigation concept is good too, however I'd certainly add the irrigation water capture and recycling option - or connect directly to the gutter downspout.

The extra width will serve to provide stability - especially on free standing walls.

Any ideas how they could be used to treat stormwater? Remember - the more vertical green we restore to the Urban Core - the more we treat stormwater, provide wildlife habitat and create a sense of place. In addition - living walls are the missing links from horizontal green up to green and vegetated roofs. Call ACF Environmental if you are interested in the Living Wall by Atlantis concepts...

Kevin