Bioswales and Ecoroofs

You may notice water running through a series of landscaped areas in South Waterfront. These are called bioswales. By channeling storm water through gravel and vegetation, bioswales cleanse rainwater by removing particles and contaminants before they soak into the ground or flow into the Willamette River. Ecoroofs on top of the buildings in South Waterfront work the same way. Prior to the development of South Waterfront, none of the area’s storm water was treated; upon completion of construction, 90% of this water will be filtered.

Related Websites: Wikipedia entry, Portland Office of Sustainable Development