City of Tempe, AZ
Home MenuGreen Stormwater Infrastructure
What is Green Stormwater Infrastructure?
Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) uses vegetation, soil, and other permeable surfaces to capture stormwater where it falls. Whereas conventional stormwater systems (called "gray stormwater infrastructure") focus on moving water away from a site using gutters, pipes, and tunnels, green stormwater infrastructure is used to collect, filter, and absorb stormwater into the ground. By soaking up water (like a sponge) instead of redirecting it away (like a funnel), GSI can help to reduce stormwater runoff while providing water for on-site vegetation.
How Does Green Stormwater Infrastructure Work?
Impervious ‘hard’ surfaces (such as roofs, roads, large areas of pavement, and asphalt parking lots) increase the volume and speed of stormwater runoff. Swift surges of water damage the natural landscape and deliver pollutants into canals and bodies of water.
Pervious ‘soft’ surfaces (such as green roofs, rain gardens, permeable pavement, and retention basins) decrease the volume and speed of stormwater runoff. The slowed water seeps into the ground, which recharges the water table and filters out pollutants; native vegetation is also nurtured by the water.
Source: Diagram courtesy of the Integration and Application Network, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (ian.umces.edu).
Rain to Roots Ambassador Program - Follow the Process!
Ambassador Meetings
September 13, 2023 Kick Off Meeting - presentation material
October 4, 2023 Meeting - presentation material
November 1, 2023 Meeting - presentation material
December 6, 2023 Meeting - presentation material
January 2024 - No Meeting
February 7, 2024 Meeting - presentation material
March 6, 2024 - presentation material
Next Meeting: Wednesday, April 3, 2024, 5:30 - 6:30 PM.
Sustainability and Economic Vitality Council Committee Presentations
October 16, 2023 Meeting - presentation material