PG Sponsoring First National LID Conference

LARGO, MD - Prince George's County, in conjunction with the Anacostia Watershed Toxics Alliance (AWTA) and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG), will be sponsoring the first National Low Impact Development (LID) Conference on September 21-23, 2004 at the University of Maryland University College Inn and Conference Center in Adelphi, Maryland.

The two and a-half day Conference will highlight innovative LID techniques designed to mitigate the effects of urbanization and development at the watershed level.  The Conference will showcase LID programs from around the region and across the nation, as well as cover a wide array of regulatory, planning and design, and financial issues with a focus on practical experience and case studies.

"The information provided by this LID Conference will make a long-term difference to the health of our community and the future of this region," said County Executive Jack B. Johnson.  "Prince George's County is committed to working with our partners to improve our environment and create livable communities for our citizens and residents."

The Conference is part of a larger effort to show the benefits of using LID and stream restoration.  Several LID demonstration sites in the Washington metropolitan area will be showcased during the Conference.

Recently, the State of Maryland endorsed Prince George's County's intention to place greater preference on LID technology over more conventional approaches to reducing stormwater pollution.  The County is currently in the process of developing new policies and regulations for LID techniques.

LID uses a comprehensive range of techniques to store, drain, retain, filter or use stormwater at the source to reduce runoff quantity and improve quality.  The control techniques are integrated into the design of buildings, streetscapes, parking lots and all aspects of urban landscape and infrastructure.  LID techniques provide many benefits, including improved aesthetics, improved air quality, reduced energy costs and enhanced property values.

For more information or to register for the National LID Conference, visit MWCOG's website at
http://www.mwcog.org/environment/LIDconference/register.asp.