(Editor’s Note: Each year, Arkansas Business partners with the Arkansas Municipal League to present the Trendsetter City awards, which recognize exceptional initiatives underway in municipalities across the state. Large, medium and small-sized cities were honored in six categories: Diversity and Inclusion; Education/Workforce Development; Infrastructure and Water; Public Works/Environmental and Green Management; Technology and Security; and Tourism Development/Creative Culture. Below is one winner’s story. For more, click here.)
Infrastructure and Water
Honorable Mention • 5,000-20,000
Population: 19,251
Mayor: Caleb Norris
County: Pulaski
Region: Central
The Challenge
Stormwater management has tested the resilience of cities for years. From erosion to soil loss, stormwater can have adverse effects on the environment. The city of Maumelle has stepped forward in its journey to becoming a sustainable community, partnering with the Environmental Protection Agency and White Oak Bayou to address stormwater issues and nurture environmental sustainability by blending technology and nature.
Rain gardens help filter runoff pollution and improve water quality.
The Solution
The city of Maumelle, with the help of the EPA, White Oak Bayou and a grant, now has two rain gardens near Lakes Valencia and Willastein. The gardens capture and cradle rainwater, channeling it away from roofs, driveways and lawns. Surrounded by and feeding native plants, the rain gardens lessen the threat of floods and give a local chapter of Cub Scouts the chance to learn gardening skills.
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