EPA recognizes Gainesville company for environmentally friendly construction

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized Wetlands Studies and Solutions, Inc. of Gainesville, Va. as a leader in building construction projects that control storm water runoff and help protect the environment.

The company was recognized for its new office and warehouse facility that incorporates several design elements to control storm water runoff including a green roof, rain garden, underground cistern, three types of permeable pavements, underground gravel detention, and preservation of existing open space, wetlands, and streams.

“Projects like this serve as great examples of how smart building practices can help protect the environment by controlling storm water runoff,” said Donald S. Welsh, administrator for EPA’s mid Atlantic Region. “Retaining as much storm water as possible on land – rather than letting it run to storm drains – can help keep harmful flows and pollutants out of our streams and rivers.”

Wetlands Studies and Solutions was recognized under the Leadership In Low Impact Development Recognition Program that was created by a cooperative agreement between EPA’s mid-Atlantic region and the Low Impact Development Center in Beltsville, Md. to highlight exceptional efforts in storm water management.

Low impact development is a storm water management strategy concerned with maintaining or restoring the natural hydrologic functions of a site to achieve natural resource protection objectives. Low impact development addresses storm water through small, cost-effective site design and landscape.