EPA this week released a new report that will help communities protect water resources and achieve smart growth. Some of the adverse effects of growth and development include: loss of woodlands, meadowlands, and wetlands, and increased polluted run-off. Smart growth is development that is good for the economy, public health and the environment.

The report documents 75 innovative approaches -- including redeveloping abandoned properties, encouraging rooftop gardens, creating shared parking, and promoting tree planting -- that state and local governments and water quality professionals can use to achieve their smart growth and water quality goals.

Visit EPA’s Smart Growing and Communities webpage to see a copy of the report and for more information about smart growth. To receive a free copy of the report, send an email to: ncepimal@one.net or call 1-800-490-9198.

7/9/2004