An innovative program in Anaheim is making waves by allowing developers to bypass creating intensive stormwater systems for their projects, instead offering credits from the city's own environmentally friendly effort. According to an official statement, Anaheim’s Stormwater Capture Credits are a new currency for balancing urban development with the need to maintain the cleanliness and sustainability of local water supplies.
Through this program, which starts in earnest for developers this February, the city takes on the stormwater management role, enabling those buildings in Anaheim to contribute environmentally without the overhead of installing onsite water systems. The funds generated from the credit sales are then poured back into expanding the program, which already provides enough treated stormwater to hydrate 370 families annually, still, developers will need to provide basic stormwater management, such as protecting drains and regular street sweeping.
By utilizing two major stormwater capture and diversion sites, officials say that more water is being collected and recycled than individual systems could achieve on smaller scales. This system not only lessens the runoff that pollutes oceans but also boosts the underground water supply. The Modjeska Park site alone captures enough rainfall to supply up to 300 families each year.
Stormwater that is collected is funneled into underground wells, which contribute to about two-thirds of Anaheim's drinking water. This approach is deemed both sustainable and economical for the city. The initiative meets legal requirements set by the California Clean Water Act to mitigate the impact of stormwater debris and chemicals on natural watercourses. With $6.5 million in credits available and prices ranging from $26.88 and $32.79, the credits' cost reflects the extensive investment in the infrastructure necessary to collect, treat, and maintain the water supply – these numbers could change as credits are sold and as the program grows.
Developers keen to benefit from the Stormwater Capture Credits can learn more about the program online, or by getting in touch with Anaheim's Keith Linker, as per the contact details released in the announcement. The program that began on a pilot basis for city projects last year is now paving the way for a balance between urban expansion and environmental stewardship.
