Stormwater Research and Education

As a leader in both engineering and architecture education and innovation, Lawrence Technological University is emerging as a national leader in sustainable education, research, and practice. The University has established a Center for Sustainability, with the purpose of advancing education and research, in sustainable design, manufacturing, and commerce. The Center’s Mission and Goals embrace the University’s 75-year commitment to teaching both theory and practice.  In addition, Lawrence Tech is strategically positioned in southeast Michigan and has two tributaries of the Rouge River running through campus.  This places the University at the heart of the Great Lakes watershed and able to make a direct impact (through cleansing stormwater) and indirect (through education others and being an advocate for conservation development and utilization of innovative stormwater BMPs) on the water quality of the region.  Finally, Lawrence Tech’s location in a major Midwestern metropolitan area and the faculty connections with green organizations make LTU well positioned to work with regional entities.  The Lawrence Tech Stormwater Research and Education Center builds upon existing innovative stormwater management systems on campus to create a living laboratory of innovative stormwater best management practices (BMPs) for education, outreach, and research.  Lawrence Tech is currently the home of several innovative stormwater BMPs including a greenroof, bioswale, bioretention systems (rain gardens), extended detention ponds, and porous pavers.