WMU to host state water quality workshopApril 23, 2010 KALAMAZOO--Water quality professionals from government agencies around the state will be on the Western Michigan University campus Monday, April 26, for an intense daylong workshop aimed at protecting municipal water quality. "Go for the Green to Save the Blue: Using Green Infrastructure to Protect Water Quality" is the topic of the event set for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at WMU's Fetzer Center. Speakers will include national experts from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as well as local professionals using green infrastructure techniques, including two WMU Facilities Management professionals who will describe the University's extensive storm water management work.
Green infrastructure management includes preservation and restoration of natural landscape features such as forests, flood plains and wetlands and capturing and reusing stormwater to restore natural hydrology. Keynote speaker Keynote speaker for the event is Jenny Molloy of the EPA's Green Infrastructure Program. Speaking twice during the day, she will talk about the federal regulatory framework and performance standards as well as the use of incentives communities can use to encourage green infrastructure development. Molloy is a former Michigan Department of Environmental Quality employee. Other presentations
During the day, those attending will have an opportunity to take a self-guided tour of WMU's storm water management projects. The event is sponsored by the EPA, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, Friends of the St. Joe River, Kalamazoo River Watershed Council, Two Rivers Association and WMU. For more information or to register, visit the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission online. Media contact: Cheryl Roland, (269) 387-8400, cheryl.roland@wmich.edu WMU News |
