Cities affect the environment and natural resources in many ways. They do this through their operations, services, and infrastructure. This includes transportation, pathways, urban nature, and neighborhoods that are easy to walk in. Cities also influence the environment through development, such as how land is used, and how residents and businesses use water, energy, and waste systems.

Importance of Environmental Protection

It is important for Salem to protect the environment because it helps ensure clean drinking water and reduces flooding. Many activities that Salem undertakes to protect the environment are required by state and federal laws. The City must follow these laws and may also create local regulations to support them. This helps keep our community safe and healthy.

Salem's Efforts to Protect the Environment

Salem takes several actions to protect the environment:

• Flooding Preparedness: The City prepares for and works to reduce flooding.
• Education Programs: Salem supports programs that teach people how to keep streams clean.
• Investing in Green Spaces: The City invests in parks, open spaces, and the urban tree canopy.
• Balancing Land Use: Salem balances land use needs for today and the future.
• Planning for Growth: The City plans for infrastructure needs as the community grows and changes.
• Encouraging Cleanup: Salem encourages the cleanup and development of Brownfield sites.
• Energy Efficiency: The City invests in energy-efficient operations.
• Resiliency Planning: Salem plans for the resiliency of services to support the community.

These efforts show how Salem works to create a healthy and sustainable environment for everyone.