Cities and towns across the nation are turning to Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) investments to reduce and treat stormwater flooding. These nature-based methods, such as permeable pavement, bioswales, stream restorations or tree canopies, also offer communities many additional health and wellness benefits, opportunities for social cohesion and improved economic prosperity.

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), through its Great Urban Parks Campaign, is working with local park and recreation agencies to create more accessible and usable green spaces in towns and cities nationwide. This effort includes the development of evidence-based resources for park and planning professionals to improve equity, health and environmental outcomes in underserved communities through green stormwater infrastructure in parks.

In August 2019, NRPA surveyed park and recreation leaders to understand better how their agencies use GSI at the local level. The survey results highlight green infrastructure projects at park systems, including issues surrounding funding, stakeholder engagement, and how to measure these investments’ long-term benefits.

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