Where and how communities grow directly and indirectly affects water quality. Conventional postwar development patterns have had adverse effects on Michigan’s water resources. The health of our water resources today depends on sound management of where growth occurs. It is equally important to discuss how development should take place at the site level to reduce potential negative effects of development.

Communities have a direct impact on the quality of their water resources through the plans, zoning ordinances and building codes they approve. Smart growth approaches can help communities prevent and manage stormwater and its effects on community water quality and quantity.

New development approaches and innovative site-level techniques from developers, state and local governments, and water quality practitioners can help encourage smart growth practices that improve water resources.