Putting the pieces together to form a comprehensive GIS map [1] of our region is a formidable task but as i mentioned earlier - very possible with the proper resources, planning, collaboration, and expertise. The open source proposals for East Cleveland will be exciting opportunities to do this innovatively on a smaller scale with cutting edge technology. Demonstrating transformational outcomes delivered with a novel approach and toolset could open the eyes of many to the greater opportunities open source provides.
It is so important to understand the interrelationships between landscape design, waterways/ watersheds, storm drainage, urban sewage systems, water treatment, and so on. Its really fascinating how once you start to read, learn, and explore- a greater appreciation of the system as a whole (the ecosystem) results. One very important watershed in our region is the Doan Brook - there may be an imminent and significant decision made regarding the future of this restoration project, which has long been opposed by Dennis Kucinich [2] and the Cultural Garden Federation [3]. They claim the project would disrupt the natural landscape by cutting into two gardens and sacrificing a number of trees, among other things. Yet the brook's restoration could play a key role in the oxygenation of other waters, enhance aesthetic appeal and help increase the biodiversity within the region. As Keith Bowers of BioHabitats [4] put it:
The emergence of Doan Brook from its buried confines will also celebrate the natural heritage of Cleveland and reunites the community to a landscape feature that was immensely popular a century ago.
The sewer district will assess the situation and their engagement in the $5.5M restoration project could fit in well with plans to become involved in regional stormwater management. The final decision, which will be made with the aid of outside consultants, would be critical - either the project would be backed and accelerated - or scrapped altogether. There would be threat of litigation by the state should a significant conservation effort not be made as the Ohio EPA [5] allowed a major wetland region (88 acres and mile of Abrams creek near Hopkins airport) to be sacrificed under the condition a major compensatory rivitalization (i.e. Doan Brook) be completed.
As the article states, No urban restoration project of this scope has been attempted before in Ohio, which is one reason for the high cost. Done effectively this could become a model for restoration projects nationwide - hence the great interest of the EPA and many other conservationists and nature lovers in general.
Links:
[1] http://li326-157.members.linode.com/blog/sudhir-kade/core-components-to-regional-transformation-using-foss-for-neo
[2] http://www.denniskucinich.us/
[3] http://www.culturalgardens.org/default.aspx
[4] http://www.biohabitats.com/
[5] http://www.epa.state.oh.us/