The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Global Green USA are taking action by conducting neighborhood workshops that introduce citizens to cost-effective, do-it-yourself practices for stormwater usage in the New Orleans area. Global Green will receive $46,884 to help protect and restore waters around Lake Pontchartrain, New Orleans. The project will also improve water quality, support community revitalization and other local priorities.
“Restoration of Lake Pontchartrain and its waterways will improve public health, provide additional recreational opportunities and boost the local economy,” said EPA Regional Administrator Ron Curry. “Work by grant awardees and partner state agencies makes certain the lake continues to benefit our communities for many years to come.”
EPA is awarding $2.08 million to 36 organizations in 17 states and Puerto Rico, ranging from $40,000 to $60,000. The projects are in areas that align with the 18 designated Urban Waters Federal Partnership locations. The Urban Waters Federal Partnership includes 14 federal agencies working to reconnect urban communities with their waterways by improving coordination among federal agencies and community-led revitalization efforts.
“We've brought together a team of scientists, landscape architects and community leaders who are committed to educating flood-prone communities on do-it-yourself green infrastructure,” explains Les McCabe, Global Green USA's President and CEO. “Together, we're implementing simple, environmentally-friendly techniques for reducing localized flooding, minimizing energy-intensive pumping of storm water, and beautifying neighborhoods -- a model, essentially, for low lying communities.”
Global Green USA is the American affiliate of Green Cross International, founded to foster a global shift toward a sustainable and secure future. Global Green USA is a leader in advocating for smart solutions to global warming, including green building for affordable housing, schools, cities and communities that save money, improve health and create green jobs. Global Green USA has partnered with Dana Brown & Associates and Water Works to educate local residents about local water issues and how to address water on their properties.
The funding, provided through EPA’s Urban Waters program, supports communities in their efforts to access and improve urban waters. Urban waters include canals, rivers, lakes, wetlands, aquifers, estuaries, bays and oceans in urbanized areas. The program will allow communities to benefit from increased access to natural areas.
Many urban waterways have been polluted for years by sewage, runoff from city streets and contamination from abandoned industrial facilities. Healthy and accessible urban waters can help grow local businesses and enhance economic, educational, recreational and social opportunities in nearby communities. By reconnecting communities to their local urban waters, EPA will help communities actively participate in restoring urban waters while improving their neighborhoods.
