Sustainable Communities

Resources form the EPA and other agencies to support small towns and rural communities in encouraging the growth of their main streets while protecting the rural landscape.

According to the EPA, “"Smart growth" covers a range of development and conservation strategies that help protect our health and natural environment and make our communities more attractive, economically stronger, and more socially diverse.”

Resources for supporting community development, local food systems, and overall quality of life. Includes bulletins, case studies, manuals, and additional formats.

Helps communities and farmers conserve their soil, water, and other natural resources through partnerships by offering need-based technical and financial assistance.

News, webinars, events calendar, and more from Smart Growth Online. Smart Growth Online is "a project of the Maryland Department of Planning and is funded by the U.S. EPA Office of Sustainable Communities". 

Highways in the United States and environmental planning, development and stewardship toolkit.

State-by-state link directory for health and environmental agencies. Locate your state’s agencies and visit their websites for rules and regulations, funding programs, and technical assistance.

The National Environmental Services Center provides resources and expertise on "wastewater,... drinking water, environmental training, infrastructure resilience, and utility management."

• National Drinking Water Clearinghouse, for fact sheets and technical assistance.
• National Environmental Training Center for Small Communities, for training and education materials on topics related to drinking water, wastewater, and solid waste. 
• National Small Flows Clearinghouse, for information resources specifically designed for small community wastewater issues and infrastructure. 

"The Sustainability Education and Economic Development (SEED) Center aims to advance sustainability and green workforce development practices at community colleges by sharing innovative models and resources and building the capacity of college administrators, faculty, and staff to contribute as leaders."

"DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives and policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency."

Includes sections on renewable energy and energy efficiency and publications on topics including energy conservation and efficiency, renewable energy options, reducing indirect energy usage and reducing transportation energy.