House Passes Polis' Bioswale Provisions In Water Quality Investment Act

Press Release

Congressman Jared Polis today successfully amended H.R. 1262, the Water Quality Investment Act of 2009, to include legislation encouraging the use of bioswales and other sustainable stormwater management systems to improve the quality of stormwater runoff. The Water Quality Investment Act of 2009 passed the House today by a vote of 317 to 101.

"Boulder has pioneered the use of bioswales as an innovative way to remove the debris and toxins that pollute our waterways," said Polis. "They offer communities a natural way to keep our water supply clean and healthy. My amendment encourages communities to follow in Colorado's footsteps and to use bioswales and other green infrastructure in their water management plans."

A Bioswale is a storm water management feature that uses vegetated natural systems along roads and parking lots to slow and filter water before it enters drainage systems. When properly designed, bioswale wetlands can be more effective than traditional sewer systems at eliminating pollutants, such as suspended solids, phosphorus, nitrogen, copper and zinc, and reducing flood damage.

Studies show that natural landscaping at residential developments or along road ways can reduce annual stormwater runoff volume by as much as 65%. Natural drainage and native landscaping areas in residential developments can remove up to 80% of the suspended solids and heavy metals and up to 70% of nutrients like phosphorous and nitrogen from stormwater runoff.

Polis' amendment would provide technical assistance and grants to communities that include bioswales and other green infrastructure in their water management plans and infrastructure improvements.

"In order to have clean and reliable water sources tomorrow, we must invest in smart, sustainable water infrastructure today," said Polis. "Bioswales are an efficient, cost effective way to keep our waters clean and communities safe for years to come."

Text and video of Polis' floor statements in support of his bioswales amendment and the Water Quality Investment Act are available on his website www.polis.house.gov.

Source