CEM Application
Community Environmental Management Application
Through “C.E.M.” Cacapon Institute assists communities by providing technical and material resources to reduce stormwater runoff pollution through watershed conservation best management practices including green infrastructure. Green infrastructure is the use of trees, plants, and landscaping to mitigate the negative impacts of stormwater runoff caused by impervious surfaces. In addition to mitigating stormwater runoff pollution, green infrastructure and conservation best management practices can improve performance and prolong the life of communities’ infrastructure (e.g., less erosion on dirt & gravel roads, improved performance of stormwater ponds, longer survival of culverts, reduced flooding). Green infrastructure, especially urban tree planting, has additional benefits including cooler communities, better air quality, and better mental health outcomes.