The Natural Resources Defense Council recently added to its Web site a neat feature called Picturing Smart Growth. The page uses manipulated photos of cities in the U.S. to show how they could be wisely developed to create healthy, walkable and economically robust communities. It’s an impressive site, and a strong shot of optimism for the future of our towns. Be sure to check out their scenario for a revitalized riverfront in Lansing.

In related news, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality on Thursday launched its Low Impact Development Manual for Michigan. For the sake of our forests, it’s best to view the manual online; at 512 pages, it’s something of a behemoth. But inside you’ll find maps from MSU’s Center for Remote Sensing and Geographic Sciences and a citizens’ introduction to MSU Extension. The Green Roof Research Program is among the references.

OK, I admit it, I read the abstract, looked at some photos and that was about it. But for those with more than a passing interest in soils, streambank erosion or stormwater management, the manual is definitely worth a look.

-Andy McGlashen