Green Roof Test To Tackle Runoff In Florida

A planned public library in Sarasota County, Florida, has a garden-topped future ahead of it, as county officials plan to use the library's green roof as a test-run to determine if green roofs are a solution to Florida's stormwater runoff problems.

1 minute read

October 9, 2006, 10:00 PM PDT

By Nate Berg

The new public library in Sarasota County, Florida, will be have one of few garden rooftops in Florida, and the county officials who have approved the plan are hopeful that the roof is successful enough to set an example for the rest of the state.

" 'Every water body in the state has had algae problems,' said Eric Livingston, bureau chief for watershed management with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. 'We know we have a problem, and we're looking at things that can reduce the pollutants going into the waterways.' "

"The county is using the Bay Street library as a test lab."

"Officials will gather precise measurements for storm-water runoff and water reuse, including condensation from the air conditioner. Those measurements could be used locally and even statewide to change permitting requirements for residential developments and commercial construction."

FULL STORY: Roof gardens a cure for water runoff?

Sunday, October 8, 2006 in Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Energy Environment Florida

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.