Local Government protecting our environment
Many resources are available to help your community safeguard the health of its watershed.
Land use and economic development decisions made by local government leaders can have a far-reaching effect on both local economies and the health of natural resources, including water quality. Clean water is an important asset to robust communities. There are numerous watershed protection resources available to local government leaders and staff.
For information and assistance, contact the following:
- Natural Resources Conservation Service – Water resource programs designed to assist local government sponsors and associated private constituents in protecting, restoring and enhancing local watersheds.
- VA Department of Conservation and Recreation: Stormwater Management – Municipal level
- VA Department of Conservation and Recreation: Land Conservation Tools
- Center for Watershed Protection – Tools and resources for local initiatives on storm water management, low-impact development, ordinances to help protect and manage water resources.
- Virginia Environmental Endowment – The Virginia Mini-Grant Program supports community-based efforts to strengthen environmental education and to promote stewardship of Virginia’s waterways.
- Low Impact Development Center (publications)
- Model Ordinances to Protect Resources
- National Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP) Database – This database provides access to stormwater BMP performance data in a standardized format for over 170 BMP studies conducted over the past fifteen years.
- The Stormwater Manager’s Resource Center (SMRC) – Designed specifically for stormwater practitioners, local government officials, and others that need technical assistance on stormwater management issues.