Green Infrastructure incorporates the natural environment and constructed systems that mimic natural processes in an integrated network that benefits nature and people. A green infrastructure approach to planning helps diverse community members come together to balance environmental and economic goals.

Natural and nature-based green infrastructure practices can play a critical role in making coastal communities more resilient to natural hazards. In this introductory course, participants review fundamental concepts and examine various green infrastructure practices. Local speakers share their expertise and the ways these techniques have been integrated into local planning processes and on-the-ground projects.

Course participants from planning, resource conservation, hazard mitigation, stormwater management, floodplain management, and local government departments will make valuable connections with new and experienced practitioners who are moving green infrastructure projects forward in their communities.

At the course, you will...
>Recognize green infrastructure terms and concepts that contribute to community resilience;
>Understand the ecological, economic, and societal benefits of green infrastructure;
>Understand the wide variety of contexts and scales of green infrastructure approaches;
>Identify existing planning processes suitable for integrating green infrastructure, stakeholder engagement techniques, and potential funding opportunities; and
>Identify local green infrastructure activities and experts with additional information.

Continuing Education Credits
Six (6) hours of certification maintenance credits for this course have been approved by the American Institute of Certified Planners. Five (5) core continuing education credits have been approved for certified floodplain managers.