In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, members and humanitarians of Visionary Houston initiated a grassroots damage assessment to understand the full extent of the storm’s impact on the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods. Volunteers and staff members, equipped with GPS-enabled tablets, fanned out across the affected areas to document flood levels, infrastructure damage, and affected properties. Using a detailed checklist, they recorded instances of street flooding, overflowing storm drains, and damage to homes and businesses, noting specifics like water depth and structural integrity.

They also deployed drones were deployed to capture aerial images of the hardest-hit regions, providing a view of areas inaccessible by foot. This data was synchronized with GIS software to create detailed maps highlighting critical flood zones and infrastructure failures. We were then able to analyze this data to identify patterns and pinpoint the most vulnerable locations, which not only provided an accurate picture of the immediate damages but also laid the groundwork for targeted  mitigation strategies.

Following the damage assessment, we mobilized a targeted community outreach and support initiative to address the immediate needs of residents in the Heights and Montrose. Using maps and data from the assessment, we identified the most severely affected households and coordinated with local non-profits and community groups to deliver essential supplies such as food, clean water, and hygiene kits.

By volunteering and working with the Red Cross and Salvation Armywho were also presenset up temporary assistance centers at community hubs, where volunteers provided information on available resources, such as temporary housing and emergency financial aid.

With immediate community needs addressed, we pivoted to a detailed infrastructure analysis and planning phase to mitigate future flood risks. Using the extensive damage assessment data, we researched the stormwater management systems in the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods by identifying critical failure points in the infrastructure, such as undersized storm drains, lack of retention ponds, and areas with low soil permeability that exacerbated flooding during Hurricane Beryl.

To address these vulnerabilities, we used the EPA's Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) to simulate storm scenarios similar to Hurricane Beryl. This modeling allowed us to predict the impact of various green infrastructure solutions, such as bioswales and permeable pavements, on reducing runoff and improving water absorption. The simulations identified that implementing these solutions in key flood-prone areas could significantly mitigate future flood impacts.

We alsoused Arduino-based sensors, which we built and programmed to measure soil moisture and water levels in real-time. These sensors were installed in key locations to gather data on how well the ground absorbed water and how quickly floodwaters receded.

Following the modeling, we looked into launching pilot projects using cost-effective and sustainable materials.

We created bioswales along White Oak Drive using native plants known for their high water absorption capacity, sourced from local nurseries and donations. For permeable pavements, we repurposed scrap materials, such as broken concrete and recycled bricks, to construct sections of pathways on Westheimer Road and Montrose Boulevard.

These installations were monitored using the Arduino-based sensors, which provided real-time data on water absorption and runoff reduction. We conducted regular field inspections and data analysis over the next several months.

Based on the pilot results, we're currently implementing a more large-scale solution, which includes expanding these green infrastructure solutions across the most flood-prone areas of the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods. We've secured additional funding through grants and have involved several community members in maintaining these installations.

In the future, we hope to use affordable, sustainable resources and local expertise to create a robust, evidence-based strategy to enhance Houston's resilience against future hurricanes.

To address Houston's stormwater management challenges, we initiated a research study to evaluate the effectiveness of various green infrastructure solutions. Led by high school students mentored by Dr. Ruda Zhang of the Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Houston, the study began with mapping and analysis of flood-prone areas in the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods. Using publicly available GIS software and local rainfall data, we mapped out areas susceptible to flooding and installed sensors to monitor rainfall, soil moisture, and runoff dynamics.

For data collection, we continued colllecting data from our Arduino-based sensors in strategic locations to monitor water levels, soil moisture, and runoff patterns during rainfall to compare the performance of different green infrastructure types such as bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable pavements. We analyzed data collected over multiple rain events using statistical models and hydrological simulations to quantify the water retention and absorption capabilities of each infrastructure type.

The data revealed that rain gardens with native plant species significantly reduced runoff volumes compared to traditional pavement, in addition to validating bioswales and permeable pavements under a different set of stormwater, pollutant, runoff, and rainfall parameters.

Collaborating with local homeowners' associations and community groups, we identified suitable sites based on soil composition, drainage patterns, and community accessibility.

Using materials sourced from community donations and local nurseries, we constructed rain gardens designed to manage stormwater runoff effectively by excavating soil to create basins, lining them with permeable fabrics, and filling them with a mixture of compost and native plant species known for their water absorption capabilities.

Throughout the process, we organized community workshops to educate residents on the benefits of rain gardens in reducing flooding and improving water quality. we also worked with volunteers from local high schools and businesses to assist with planting.

Monitoring systems, including simple water level gauges and observation logs, were set up to track the performance of rain gardens during rain events. Data collected was analyzed to assess the gardens' effectiveness in retaining stormwater and minimizing runoff.

Afterward, we turned our focus to implementing green roof projects in collaboration with local schools and businesses. The initiative aimed to leverage rooftops as green spaces that mitigate stormwater runoff, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance building insulation.

First, we conducted site assessments to identify suitable rooftops capable of supporting green roof installations. We prioritized buildings with flat or low-slope roofs, ensuring safety and feasibility within the project's resource constraints. Using materials such as lightweight soil mixes, drought-tolerant plants, and locally sourced sedum species, we with local residents and volunteers to construct green roof systems.

Students and volunteers participated in hands-on workshops to learn about green roof design principles, including drainage systems, planting techniques, and maintenance schedules to select plant species that thrive in Houston's climate.

We also installed a second set of monitoring stations equipped with automated weather sensors and runoff collection devices were installed to measure the effectiveness of green roofs in retaining rainwater and reducing building energy consumption to assess the roofs' impact on stormwater management, urban cooling, and energy efficiency.

To begin, we conducted site assessments of potential wetland restoration sites to identify suitable locations. We prioritized areas with historical wetland features or degraded natural habitats that could benefit from ecological restoration. Using GIS mapping and hydrological modeling tools, we analyzed topography, soil composition, and existing hydrological patterns to inform the restoration design.

Volunteers, including high school students and community members, planted native vegetation such as cattails, rushes, and wetland grasses known for their ability to filter pollutants and stabilize soil. We also used biodegradable erosion control blankets and natural fiber mats were used to prevent soil erosion and promote plant growth during the initial establishment phase.

Throughout the restoration process, we installed water quality monitoring to track improvements in dissolved oxygen levels, nutrient cycling, and overall ecosystem health. We then analyzed the data collected from these monitoring stations to assess the effectiveness of wetland restoration in reducing stormwater runoff and enhancing urban resilience to future extreme weather events.

Recognizing the importance of individual water management in storm-prone areas, we launched the Water Barrel Distribution Program. This initiative aimed to reduce stormwater runoff by distributing rain barrels to residents across the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods. The program encouraged residents to collect and reuse rainwater for gardening and other non-potable uses, thereby alleviating pressure on municipal drainage systems during heavy rainfall events.

To initiate the program, we collaborated with local hardware stores and community centers to procure food-grade barrels suitable for rainwater collection. High school student volunteers assisted in retrofitting these barrels with mosquito screens and spigots to ensure safety and usability.

We also organized distribution events in community hubs and neighborhood gatherings, where residents received free or subsidized rain barrels based on their household needs and participation in educational sessions. Each recipient was provided with instructions on installation techniques and tips for optimizing water conservation practices.

To begin, we conducted a survey of parking lots in the target areas to identify suitable locations for retrofitting and assess the current drainage conditions and soil permeability of selected parking lots in the Heights and Montrose to reduce runoff and improve water infiltration.

After the assessment, we sourced permeable paving materials, such as permeable concrete pavers and porous asphalt, from local suppliers and construction companies. Using resources like donated equipment and community workshops, we worked alongside student volunteers and local contractors to remove existing impermeable surfaces and install the new materials.

Recognizing the need for systemic change in stormwater management, we're currently planning an advocacy campaign aimed at municipal and state-level stakeholders. This step was crucial in actually using community research and practical projects to influence urban planning and environmental policy.

We began by compiling reports and case studies detailing the effectiveness of green infrastructure projects implemented in the Heights and Montrose neighborhoods. Local high school students analyzed data collected from rain gardens, green roofs, wetland restorations, water barrel distributions, and parking lot retrofits.

Based on our findings, we're currently trying to organize community forums and town hall meetings to educate residents and policymakers on the benefits of green infrastructure in mitigating stormwater runoff and reducing flood risks by collaborating closely with local nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups.

As part of our advocacy efforts, we hope to drafted policy recommendations aimed at incentivizing the adoption of green infrastructure practices through tax incentives, zoning adjustments, and regulations by engaging with city council members, state representatives, and urban planning committees to advocate for the integration of green infrastructure requirements in future urban development plans.