Heavier rainfall, more frequent floods, and longer droughts. Changing weather patterns are hitting many communities hard—especially those with aging infrastructure or the wrong infrastructure for new conditions. Flooded streets, clogged drains, and damaged homes aren’t just inconveniences; they’re real threats to health, safety, and stability. While large-scale infrastructure investments are needed, across the Groundwork Network, communities are finding creative ways to use small-scale, nature-based solutions to improve their relationship with water. From microforests to stormwater parks and bioswales, these innovative strategies work with nature—not against it—to manage stormwater, reduce flood risks, and protect lives and property.
As we’ve seen across the Groundwork Network, by thinking creatively and holistically about land use and nature-based solutions, these small-scale efforts can have an outsized impact on flood resilience.
Groundwork Elizabeth – Microforests to Combat Flooding & Heat
In Elizabeth, NJ, a heavily industrialized port city, Groundwork Elizabeth is using microforests as a way to make the most of extremely limited open space. By planting using the Miyawaki method—densely planting 15 to 30 native tree and shrub species in small spaces—they repurpose vacant, potentially contaminated, land into essential infrastructure that absorbs excess rainwater, eases pressure on storm drains, and reduces street flooding alongside multiple other benefits. While traditional forests require decades of growth to provide measurable results, these microforests reach full maturity in less than 20 years and start showing measurable benefits in under five years!
Groundwork Denver – Rain Barrels for Stormwater Management and Conservation
Stormwater runoff is a growing issue in metro Denver, making local waterways harmful and less accessible for many in the surrounding neighborhoods. Groundwork Denver is providing residents impacted by poor water quality with free rain barrels as part of their water conservation efforts. These rain barrels collect rainwater from rooftops, storing up to 55 gallons at a time, with the option of using two barrels to capture up to 110 gallons. By offering free installation and all necessary equipment, including the barrel, stand, and patented downspout kit, the program helps reduce stormwater runoff, prevent flooding, and improve local waterways. This initiative not only conserves water but also saves residents money on their outdoor water usage!
Groundwork Jacksonville – Strengthening Homes to Withstand Flooding
In Jacksonville’s North Riverside neighborhood, frequent flooding near McCoy’s Creek puts homes and families at constant risk. Many residents, especially those in older homes, face displacement every time heavy rains hit. Groundwork Jacksonville’s home repair program retrofits owner-occupied residences across the neighborhood with white roofs, stormwater systems, and flood-mitigating landscaping. These upgrades not only prevent future flood damage but also address issues from past floods, such as leaks and mold. Collectively, these upgrades provide benefits at the individual level – keeping folks in their homes and reducing the costs of upkeep – and at the neighborhood level by easing the overburdened stormwater systems. The upgrades help residents stay in their homes, lower maintenance costs, and reduce strain on the neighborhood’s stormwater system. Additionally, rain gardens and other improvements to the yards help absorb rainwater, making homes more resilient to future storms.
Flooding is a rising threat, but smart and strategic land use is a powerful defense. Not only do these solutions manage stormwater and reduce flooding, but they also improve public health, create recreational spaces, and foster community connection. As climate pressures mount, the need for bold, forward-thinking flood prevention is no longer optional—it’s essential. By embracing creative land use strategies that work with nature, we can protect our neighborhoods and build more resilient communities prepared to weather any storm.
