For cities located along a major waterfront – whether that's a lake, river, or ocean – figuring out how to best utilize that space without harming the environment can be a challenge. Many of the most popular activities, such as boating, can be highly polluting, and overdevelopment near the shore can cause problems with erosion, runoff, and contamination. Still, used correctly, waterfront property can be a key part of urban recreation space without contributing to these problems.

Making use of an area's natural waterfront is also a great way to avoid wasteful water use in theme parks and waterpark attractions, creating additional motivation to sustainably develop these spaces. As good stewards of our environment, we can also work to create popular public spaces, as the following four cities have done:

Hunter's Point South

In 2013, New York City – a place not exactly renowned for its upstanding environmentalism – unveiled something entirely unique: the Hunter's Point South Waterfront Park in Long Island City, a part of Queens. The initial phase included the first 5 acres of what would eventually become 11 acres of park. The space currently includes an artificial turf athletic field, as well as typical grass for recreation, a dog run, and even some beach space.

What's remarkable about this new waterfront park is the way it's been designed around common urban development flaws. Solar panels meet a large part of the energy needs and a rain garden offers a glimpse into the past, when the area was primarily wetlands. The park's design is intuitive, built in ways that protect the East River, while also predicting changes in water levels due to climate change.

Better Boating in the Twin Cities

With the Great Lakes in their backyard, Minnesota's Twin Cities area offers many opportunities for water recreation, and boating is a local favorite, especially since the region is so far north. But pay a visit to the state's website to learn more and you'll find smart advice on how to enjoy the water without causing damage to the surrounding environment.

A large part of the advice offered to pleasure seekers has to do with using less fuel and causing minimal disruption to sea life. The site reminds us that boating "doesn't require continuous movement." It can also be enjoyed when floating or anchored. The site also discourage excessive wake near the shore. While people are encouraged to come spend time on the water, they're regularly reminded that it's not their home.

The Benefits of Canoeing and Row Boating

One waterfront recreation alternative that's easy for any city to implement is canoeing and row boating facilities. All you need is a boat house and a small dock, as modeled by the University of Washington, which offers these activities on Union Bay. And because canoeing and row boating don't use fuel or motors, it's a much cleaner and less disruptive habit than using motorboats or other power vehicles.

Unlike with motorboats that are privately owned, publically run rowboat and canoe facilities need to be sure to offer appropriate safety equipment, including life jackets in multiple sizes. No one should be allowed on the water without a life jacket.

Wharf Development in D.C.

Washington, D.C. has some of the most stringent environmental regulations in the country, making it unsurprising that the area is home to some of the most impressive, yet sustainable waterfront development. Located along the Anacostia, the development along the wharf hosts LEED Silver and Gold certified buildings and manages the extensive runoff in the area with three major cisterns, as well as innovative permeable pavement and plant life. All of this is accessible by bicycles and public transit.

Perhaps the most impressive part of the wharf development in D.C. is how it's constructed to attract wildlife to the area, rather than drive it away – which is common when waterfront areas are built up. With a carefully engineered wetland area, turtles, fish, and birds flock to the area, helping to maintain the natural diversity of the area.

Waterfront development is a valuable asset to any urban area, but if we want these recreation spaces to profit not just people but the environment as well, we need to approach construction and landscape alterations with caution. When we bring more people to the waterfront, we risk driving animals away and doing permanent damage to the water quality, but when we plan this development with the natural world at the core, we can create shared, vibrant spaces.