Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure, often referred to as GI, offers an effective approach to managing stormwater pollution by leveraging natural elements such as natural vegetation and soils to mimic natural water management processes. This process aids in the reduction of stormwater runoff and enhances urban environments by promoting healthier communities. In September 2019, the Board of Supervisors approved the County’s Green Infrastructure Plan (PDF), which outlines strategies for integrating green infrastructure into unincorporated areas of the County.

Benefits of Green Infrastructure

infographic of green infrastructure with bioswale and water permeable paving and landscaping

Natural Filtration

GI features act as in ground filters to reduce pollutants that can be transported by water. When polluted water enters a GI feature, it goes through different filtration stages where pollutants are left behind before entering a waterbody.

Keeps Water Local

GI features capture water that flows into them and allows the water to slowly percolate and filter before entering a waterbody. This means that water in a GI feature can be used to water rain gardens or even recharge groundwater.

Increases Vegetation

GI features use native vegetation which attract pollinators and wildlife beneficial to the area. Think birds, frogs, and even butterflies!

Reduces Flooding

GI Features help manage stormwater runoff during rain events by slowing the flow of water and giving the water a place to drain to, other than a storm drain which can often be clogged with debris during storms.

Lowers Heat Island Effect

GI features, like most vegetative and planted features, will aid in cooling down urban areas by deflecting sun radiation. An added bonus if trees are part of the feature because as they grow the shade they provide will reduce temperatures!

For more information on green infrastructure and its benefits, visit the San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program webpage. If you’re planning a new development project and want to incorporate green infrastructure, please check out the County’s Planning and Building page for guidance.

The Latest News & Events

Mar
22

Fixit Clinic @ Half Moon Bay Library

Fixit Clinics are fun community-based workshops where neighbors, friends, and families work collectively to learn how to repair broken items. We’ll provide a workspace, specialty tools, and volunteer Fixit Coaches to help you troubleshoot and provide routine maintenance to your household items and appliances! Register at https://bit.ly/itemcheckin.

Interested in being a Fixit Coach?
It’s easy! Provide participants with 1) guidance on tools and 2) encouragement to investigate their broken item. Let them talk about how they used it and how it broke. That often provides valuable hints as to what’s wrong. See how much you can do without actually handling the item. Empower the item’s owner to do the troubleshooting and disassembly. Register to be a Fixit Coach here.

This event is hosted in partnership with the San Mateo County Libraries.

LEARN MORE

8 Ways to Reduce Waste This Holiday Season

Holiday Recycling Guide: How to Recycle Trees,…

Green Infrastructure