Urban Conservation
Did you know increased urbanization can lead to a number of challenges in the environment? Increased roof tops and paved areas means less water soaking into the ground (infiltration), which in turn leads to greater amounts of surface runoff and the potential for more violent flash flooding. Fertilizer and pesticide use on lawns and turf can lead to unsafe drinking water. Continued land development can reduce habitat for native species. These are just a few of the challenges as cities continue to grow. With all of these threats, it’s critical that we do everything we can to help our environment no matter where we live.
Conservation in urban areas can take many shapes and sizes. On a larger scale are practices such as green roofs, which are made of living plants and are able to use a majority of rainwater that falls on them. This reduces the amount of rainfall going through a city’s stormwater system. Another practice many urban areas have adopted is large bioretention cells in hopes of reducing large stormwater flows—and therefore large flash floods. These shallow basins are home to many deep-rooted plants and not only work to hold stormwater but to remove pollutants. In addition to benefiting water quality, both practices create habitat for creatures like birds, insects, and even some mammals.
For the individual homeowner, there are several small-scale projects that help improve our environment. One practice some residents have done is the installation of permeable pavers. An alternative to traditional concrete and asphalt, permeable pavers are another way to promote water infiltration and prevent large rainstorms from overwhelming urban stormwater systems. An even simpler project is replanting native prairie species. These deep-rooted plants promote water infiltration and protect soil from erosion. These plants are also a great benefit to pollinators! Big or small, all these practices can lead to cleaner water and a healthier urban environment.
Video Resources
Adventures of the Conservation Pack – Interview with an Urban Conservationist
Enhanced Learning Activities
Additional Resources
Native Landscaping – Iowa Stormwater Education Partnership
Plants for Rain Gardens, Biocells and Bioswales – Iowa Stormwater Education Partnership
Urban Conservation Practices – Clean Water Iowa