Storm Water Management

Stormwater runoff occurs when rainwater flows over impervious surfaces (such as roads, driveways, and rooftops) and cannot infiltrate into the ground. Managing stormwater is crucial for preventing flooding, erosion, and water pollution, as well as for protecting natural ecosystems and water resources.

Key aspects of stormwater management

Retention and Detention Basins: These basins temporarily hold stormwater, allowing sediments to settle and water to slowly infiltrate the soil.

Permeable Surfaces: The use of permeable materials, such as permeable pavers or porous asphalt, allows stormwater to penetrate the surface and be absorbed into the ground.

Rain Gardens: Rain gardens are landscaped areas designed to capture and manage stormwater, promoting infiltration and filtering pollutants.

Vegetated Swales: Swales are shallow, vegetated channels that help slow down and filter stormwater runoff.

Stormwater Ponds: Artificial ponds or wetlands designed to collect and retain stormwater, allowing sediments to settle and water to be released slowly.

Tree Planting: Trees absorb water and reduce runoff by intercepting rainfall on leaves and promoting infiltration through their root systems.

Erosion Control: Implementing erosion control measures, such as silt fences or erosion control blankets, to prevent soil erosion and sedimentation in water bodies.

By managing stormwater effectively, communities become more resilient to extreme weather events and climate change impacts.