Landforce, a local organization dedicated to land stewardship and workforce development, takes care of the plants and soils for PWSA Green Infra-structure projects by removing debris and weeds so these projects can capture as much stormwater as possible.

Green infrastructure, like rain barrels, rain gardens, tree plantings, and permeable pavers, mimic nature to capture, store, and filter stormwater. Many homeowners in Pittsburgh have installed green solutions to reduce runoff and improve the environment. Now is the time to deep clean green infrastructure in preparation for spring rains!  

If you have green infrastructure at home, follow these spring cleaning tips:

• Remove any trash, leaves, sediment, weeds, or invasive plants.
• Remove dead stalks or spent flower blooms on perennial plants and replace any dead plants.
• Inspect soil and mulch depth and quality and replace if necessary.
• Inspect stormwater inlets and outlets, and repair or replace if necessary.
• Inspect and clean rain barrel tanks and fittings.
• If you have downspout diverter, switch it over to route water to the rain barrel.
• Do not fertilize in the spring unless necessary. Fertilize in the fall to promote root growth and prevent nutrients from washing away during spring rains.

 Learn more at pgh2o.com/help-manage-stormwater.