Stormwater planters take runoff from gutter downspouts and direct it to a planter box. The plants will use some of this water, and the soil media will help to filter pollutants. They are easy to maintain and provide a nice visual accent to a home/driveway.

There are several types of permeable pavements that make good alternatives to traditional asphalt and concrete. They all allow water to pass through into lower layers and sink in to the soil. They all have a crushed stone base to allow for drainage, and to provide a firm base for the pavement. Permeable asphalt, permeable concrete, and permeable interlocking paver blocks are all good options.

Green roofs are vegetated roof systems with a thin layer of light soil media. The plants use rain that falls, prevent- ing it from running off into the stormwater system. They come in trays, and are most suitable for larger, commercial flat roofs.

Rain barrels collect and hold rain, keeping it from entering storm drains. The collected rain can then be used to water gardens, lawns, or indoor plants. It is a great way to disconnect impervious cover, especially on rooftops, and conserve water. For more information, check out the Connecticut Guide to Rain Barrels.

Tree box filters act as mini bioretention systems and are great in urban areas or along streets where space is more limited. Using a precast concrete box, soils and the roots of the tree work to absorb and filter out pollutants of stormwater runoff before it enters into the stormwater sewer system via an under drain pipe.