S.W.I.M. Coalition

The state Environmental Conservation and Parks Departments recently released the “New York State 2009 Open Space Conservation Plan.” (http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/47990.html) It includes not only priorities for land aquisition/conservation (including in NYC — see Part V), but also an “action agenda” that includes sections on green infrastructure and other urban greening/waterfront access issues (see Part III).

SWIM is pleased to report that the green infrastructure discussion includes a reference to Riverkeeper’s “Sustainable Raindrops” report and also cites NYC’s Local Law 5 (which SWIM was instrumental in passing) as a potential statewide model. The plan also expresses the state’s intent to “develop a comprehensive green infrastructure program including technical assistance and web-based resources to local governments, state agencies and commercial nurseries and private citizens.”

Philadelphia’s water department  is implementing an innovative new program, adding a stormwater charge for nonresidential customers as an incentive for greening paved areas to reduce runoff.  This tax will be based on the amount of impervious surface, charging customers for the runoff they generate.   Turning paved surfaces such as schoolyards  green provides the added benefit of shaded and healthier places to play.  

http://changingskyline.blogspot.com/2009/06/phillys-need-for-green-acres.html