In a natural environment, soil and plants absorb rain. But when streets, buildings, and parking lots cover the ground, rain washes over these hard surfaces. The resulting stormwater runoff carries dirt, oil and other pollutants to rivers and streams and can also cause erosion and flooding that harm properties and wildlife habitat.

Portland uses green streets, ecoroofs, trees, and other green infrastructure to manage stormwater, protect water quality and improve watershed health.  Urban streams, forests, and wetlands manage stormwater naturally and are part of Portland's green infrastructure.

Over one-third of Portland's 2,500 miles of sewer pipes are more than 80 years old.  Green infrastructure protects the aging sewer system and makes it operate more efficiently by keeping stormwater out of sewers. 

Green infrastructure brings nature into the city, which can improve both mental and physical health, increase property value, conserve energy, enhance wildlife habitat and save money on more costly pipe infrastructure.   

Explore this web site for examples of green infrastructure in Portland, and the successful partnerships between the city and its communities that make these projects possible.