Environmental, Economic, and Societal Costs of Stormwater Runoff in the Puget Sound Region
Stormwater runoff has affected the health of the Puget Sound region, through
impacts such as flooding and property damage, degradation of water quality,
increased stormwater volumes, destruction of freshwater and estuarine habitat,
and closures of shellfish growing areas. This study will identify, analyze,
and quantify (wherever possible) the environmental, societal, and economic
costs of stormwater runoff within the Puget Sound region, and the benefits
of stormwater management.In addition, the
study
will identify the limitations of conventional stormwater management techniques,
and opportunities for
improved stormwater management. The results are intended to provide motivation
and guidance for investments in stormwater management and, more generally,
for watershed planning and land-use planning.
Funded by the Puget Sound Action Team
Anne C. Steinemann, PI
Above: stormwater runoff. Photo: The Water Center.