Making the Connection:
Smart Growth and Water Resource Protection

Changes in land use are linked to impacts on water resources. This module illustrates how historical trends in growth patterns and activities on land have become the most significant challenge for preserving water quality and meeting future water resource goals.

Factors such as traffic congestion, air quality, and public health figure prominently in discussions on urban growth and development today. This module focuses on the connections between smart growth approaches and Clean Water Act programs. It also includes tools, resources and case studies illustrating how land use decisions made at the local and state levels can help protect and restore water resources by using innovative approaches that meet economic, environmental and social goals.

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