Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and landscape features to manage water and provide related environmental functions.
Definition
Green infrastructure uses natural or designed landscape features, vegetation, and soils to manage runoff or support related environmental functions. Civil projects may include practices such as rain gardens, permeable surfaces, vegetated channels, or tree systems, depending on local criteria and site conditions. A firm's scope may cover feasibility, sizing, grading, interfaces with utilities, construction details, or coordination with landscape professionals. Agencies and clients can define the term and eligible practices differently, so project documents should identify the specific features and performance goals. Results depend on design, installation, soil and groundwater conditions, and continuing maintenance. Green infrastructure is not a single standard facility, and the label alone does not establish runoff reduction, regulatory compliance, or long-term performance. It may complement conventional drainage infrastructure, with responsibilities for inspection and upkeep assigned for the operating period.
How owners use it
- Identify landscape-based practices that can manage runoff as part of a site plan.
- If a project routes 4 acres to a vegetated feature and 3 acres to a permeable area, the combined treated area is 4 + 3 = 7 acres.
- Coordinate proposed practices with civil, landscape, utility, and maintenance scopes.
- Describe the specific practices and performance criteria rather than relying on the broad label.
