When it rains, large quantities of stormwater enter Portland’s combined sewer system. As the city continues to grow, the amount of impervious surfaces increases, creating less space for rainwater to infiltrate back into the ground.  Using sustainable stormwater strategies can limit the amount of rainwater entering the sewer system.  You can recharge local aquifers and capture a valuable resource for irrigation, flushing toilets and even as potable water.

• BES: Sustainable Stormwater

  Integrating stormwater management into building and site design can reduce the damaging effects of uncontrolled runoff, including flooding, erosion and pollution of rivers and streams.  Learn how your business can direct runoff to natural systems like landscaped planters, bioswales, rain gardens, rain barrels or an eco-roof.

  www.portlandonline.com/bes/index.cfm?c=34598

• East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District

  East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District is a unit of local government serving the residents and landowners of Multnomah County lying east of the Willamette River by providing conservation education, technical, and financial assistance to private land and home owners, governments, and non-profit organizations.

  www.emswcd.org

• Oregon Environmental Council: Stormwater Solutions

  Surfaces such as asphalt, concrete and rooftops prevent water from seeping into the ground. Instead they force it to flow along the surface, picking up dirt and contaminants.  The Oregon Environmental Council has tips to help you reduce harmfull runoff at your business.

  www.oeconline.org/resources/livinggreen/atwork/stormwaterrunoffworkplace

• West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District

  West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District is a state-designated special district.  Its mission is to conserve, protect and develop soil and water resources and to help with the development of all natural resources in west county for the benefit of the people, wildlife and the environment.

  www.westmultconserv.org