A New Resource for Water Conservation and Greener Neighborhoods
The City of Phoenix has launched the Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Handbook, a free, visually engaging guide to help residents conserve water, create cooler outdoor spaces, and support local wildlife.
Available online in both English and Spanish, the handbook offers practical solutions for collecting and using rainwater in home landscapes.
Why Green Stormwater Infrastructure Matters
Phoenix faces rising temperatures and ongoing drought conditions, making water conservation more critical than ever.
Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) methods—such as rain barrels, permeable surfaces, and bioswales—help reduce water waste while improving air quality and reducing localized flooding.
Tricia Balluff, Environmental Programs Manager for the City of Phoenix, highlights the handbook’s impact:
“Everything in this information-packed and highly visual guide gives our residents and city an opportunity to benefit from GSI integration, all while embracing the beauty of our Sonoran Desert and honoring the wonder of this region.”
Simple Solutions for a More Sustainable City
The handbook provides step-by-step guidance on implementing GSI features at home, covering:
Rainwater harvesting – Using barrels or cisterns to collect water for plants
Permeable surfaces – Replacing concrete with porous materials to reduce runoff
Native plants – Choosing desert-friendly vegetation for low-maintenance landscaping
Stormwater basins – Shaping yards to absorb and direct rainwater efficiently
Did You Know? A single rainstorm can generate thousands of gallons of runoff. Capturing even a fraction of this water helps reduce demand on the city’s water supply.
Community Benefits and Long-Term Impact
Beyond individual homes, GSI plays a crucial role in urban cooling and wildlife support. By incorporating green infrastructure, neighborhoods can experience lower temperatures, improved biodiversity, and more aesthetically pleasing public spaces.
Heather Finden, Stormwater Post-Construction Program Manager, encourages residents to take action:
“The Green Stormwater Infrastructure Handbook gives our community simple ways to adopt water-saving solutions. Small changes at home can add up, making a big difference in how we manage stormwater and increase shade in our neighborhoods.”
Get the Handbook and Start Today
The 25-page guide is free to download and includes illustrations, design tips, and maintenance recommendations. Phoenix officials encourage residents to explore the handbook and integrate GSI features into their own outdoor spaces.
📥 Download the handbook at: www.phoenix.gov/pdd/gsi
With simple adjustments, Phoenix residents can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future—one yard at a time.
Sources: City of Phoenix, WEF Stormwater Report, and Harvesting Rainwater.
