Low Impact Developoment

Project Period:  2007- 2011

Low Impact Development (LID) is an approach to managing stormwater runoff through development practices that mimics hydrology under natural conditions. LID not only manages stormwater, it makes communities greener and more beautiful. In native forests, when it rains most of the water evaporates or is absorbed into the ground and is then taken up by the roots of the plants and trees growing there. The process of allowing water to filter through the ground  naturally, removes many of the pollutants in the water before it reaches our rivers, lakes, and marine waters.

Skagit MRC has carried out several LID projects in the County.  In 2007, Skagit MRC partnered with the Port of Anacortes to install pervious pavers, rain gardens, and LID interpretive signage at O Avenue adjacent to the Port offices. Skagit MRC also partnered with the City of Anacortes in 2011 to install pervious pavers, rain barrels, and interpretive signage at the Anacortes Train Depot.  In addition, Skagit MRC created a brochure about LID techniques with examples of LID projects happening in Skagit County.