Natural Resources & Waste

Stormwater Management

Managing stormwater effectively after rainstorms prevents trash and pollution from contaminating our local waterways. It also makes our community more resilient during flooding events.

The City is making substantial systemwide investments to modernize its sewer and stormwater infrastructure. For example, the Morrison Ave project will install new drainage infrastructure and rehabilitate the existing sewer system. This project will reduce flood risk in the surrounding area and help maintain the water quality of local rivers.

Image

Tree Canopy Expansion

The City of Somerville maintains over 12,000 public trees! Every year, Somerville plants hundreds of new trees around the City.

Additionally, the City passed a Native Planting Ordinance. It requires 50% of new street trees planted by the City to be native species. Native species use less water, grow well, and better support local wildlife.

Image

Spring 2023 Tree Planting Map

The City of Somerville planted 185 trees during the Spring 2023 Planting Season. The map to the right shows details about the placement and species of these trees.

Check out the City of Somerville’s Public Space and Urban Forestry page to learn more.
 

Urban Forest Management Plan

The Public Space and Urban Forestry Division (PSUF) completed its Urban Forest Management Plan that provides a data-driven plan and set of goals to maintain Somerville’s forest over the next 5-10 years. Read the Plan!

Image

Zero Waste

Textile Recycling

Did you know your old clothes can be recycled? The City offers free clothing recycling pickups. (Do not place these items in your blue recycling bin.) Rather, you may schedule pickups of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Your items will either be sorted for reuse (if in good condition) or recycled (if not usable)
Schedule a Pickup!

Image

Learn more about Somerville’s zero waste efforts from the City’s Zero Waste Plan.

What You Can Do

Reduce Your Waste At Home
 

Image

• Use the Waste Wizard to find out how to properly dispose of or recycle your waste.
• Schedule a pickup to recycle your mattress or box spring.
• Explore the full Tree Inventory Map.
• Adopt a catch basin drain to help keep our waterways clean.
• Adopt a tree - name it, water it, love it.