Stormwater Planning

Using an integrated approach to reduce stormwater impacts over time 

Stormwater managers use stormwater infrastructure to protect people and property, reduce flooding and pollution, and enhance local economies. It can be hard for communities to finance, prioritize, and properly plan long-term solutions to stormwater management. There are often so many priorities in a community that it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin. In the meantime, stormwater can continue to take a backseat compared to other issues a community may be tackling.

This suite of long-term stormwater planning resources applies the integrated planning approach to stormwater assets, concepts, and resources. Planning for long-term stormwater management creates opportunities for communities to use stormwater as a resource, invest in resilient infrastructure, revitalize waterways, and introduce green space to make communities more enjoyable and welcoming.

It also lets community staff form new partnerships or build upon existing relationships with those who live or work in the community, including those who previously did not engage in planning. By incorporating diverse viewpoints, community staff can better address community objectives and find creative solutions to address multiple priorities. Improved planning leads to better-informed recommendations and decisions.

EPA’s Integrated Planning webpage includes details on the integrated planning process and background.

Explore the pages below to learn more about long-term stormwater planning.

• About

  

  The benefits of integrated planning/long-term stormwater planning, approach, and materials to get started.

  Start

• Common Topics

  

  Asset management, funding, engagement, infrastructure, development policies, and roadway projects.

  Learn

• Community Pilot Projects

  

  Four communities pursue long-term stormwater planning.

  Explore