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This week, architects, engineers and planners are participating in "Ripple Effect: A Low Impact Development Conference" in Springfield. As KSMU's Missy Shelton reports, before the conference, participants had the chance to consider ways to make developments more environmentally friendly.
Small groups hover over drawings spread out on tables. They're discussing ways to create a "low impact development" on a plot of land.
A low impact development is supposed to have a limited effect on the environment.
George Van Hoesen is a green building consultant. He says environmentally friendly developments require planners to be more creative.
The teams presented their low impact designs during the Ripple Effect Conference. The conference examines issues like smart growth, rainwater harvesting, rain gardens and other environmentally friendly development practices.