Top Sites

HCCREMS

Why we like it

This site for the Hunter Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy was rebuilt in July 2007 to better support the programs being implemented on behalf of the 14 member councils. Apart from information on each of the major projects, which includes the regional Mainstreaming Integrated Water Cycle Management program, it has links to Hunter Councils Environment Division's site - the host organisation for the strategy's staff.

How you can use it

Use the 'Projects', 'Water' link to view information on the current Urban Water Cycle Management program. It also provides links to the recently revised Water Smart Model Planning Provisions and Water Smart Practice Notes. There are 11 Practice Notes covering issues ranging from site planning to wastewater reuse and permeable paving. It also contains copies of the recently published Water Sensitive Urban Design Solutions for Catchments Above Wetlands report, providing procedures for setting criteria to protect wetlands from the effects of altered flows and water quality.

Melbourne Water

Why we like it

There is a lot to recommend:

This a superb source of water sensitive urban design information.

How you can use it

Browse their water sensitive urban design case studies to get an idea of current best practice.
Use their review of water quality treatment tools to help design a treatment train.
Use some of their fact sheets with developers, schools and community groups.

Your Home

Why we like it

Detailed guidance on how homes can be designed to achieve better environmental outcomes, supported by documentation of many case studies.

How you can use it

As a demonstration to colleagues and others that much higher standards of environmental design are possible.
As an environmental educatio resource.
As a reference document for house design options.

Online training in watershed management (US EPA)

Why we like it

A superb online training resource in catchment management as a multidisciplinary activity.

How you can use it

To develop your own skills
As a basis for training within your organisation
As a reference document describing the basic skills needed for effective catchment management.

Citizen Science Toolbox

Why we like it

A toolkit from the Coastal CRC that introduces over 60 ways to involve communities more effectively in public policy decision-making.

How you can use it

As a guide to processes which you could use to involve local communities more meaningfully in government decision-making.
As a way of increasing your sense of flexibility re working with communities.

BeyondIntractability.org: Information on More Constructive Approaches to Difficult and Intractable Conflicts

Why we like it

A comprehensive introduction to conflict resolution.

How you can use it

As a resource to help you find ways to negotiate through difficult policy conflicts.
As a means of educating yourself about conflict resolution and negotiation.

Local Government Environmental Assistance Network Toolbox (US)

Why we like it

A directory to a set of high quality environmental management tools available online.

How you can use it

As a source of checklists, calculators and other kinds of tools.
"The Local Government Environmental Assistance Network has provided this toolbox as a resource to assist local government officials in their efforts to protect the environment and public health. Opening each drawer provides users with access to a variety of tools in a particular area of concern to local governments. The tools (interactive software or documents that require user input) are designed to help users perform operations and calculations necessary to fulfill environmental reporting requirements or guide the development of a helpful environmental program."

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