Stormwater runoff is a major contributing factor to water pollution in urban areas. The water that flows off streets, paths, and rooftops often contains harmful chemicals, debris, and pollutants. But there are ways that cities can manage stormwater in a sustainable manner. In this post, we'll explore several approaches that can be used to manage stormwater effectively.
The Importance of Sustainable Stormwater Management
Stormwater runoff is particularly problematic for our waterways because of its quantity and quality. As it flows across parking lots, roads, and rooftops, it picks up pollutants that can contaminate the water we drink and the fish we eat.
But by implementing sustainable stormwater management practices, cities can significantly reduce the amount of runoff that enters our waterways. These approaches include green infrastructure, low-impact development, and more.
Green Infrastructure
Green infrastructure solutions include everything from rain gardens and bioswales to green roofs and permeable pavement. These solutions help to absorb and filter stormwater, reducing runoff and protecting our waterways.
One of the most effective green infrastructure solutions is the use of vegetated roofs. For example, the Chicago City Hall has a green roof that reduces stormwater runoff by more than 50%. The plants absorb and filter the rainwater, reducing the amount of pollutants that enter the city's storm sewer system.
Low-Impact Development
Low-impact development (LID) approaches aim to mimic natural hydrologic processes, such as infiltration and evapotranspiration. LID includes features like vegetated swales, green roofs, and permeable pavement. These strategies slow the flow of stormwater and provide treatment before it enters our waterways.
For example, the City of Portland has implemented a stormwater management manual that requires developers to implement LID best practices. The manual aims to manage roughly 90% of runoff on-site.
Other Sustainable Practices
There are many other sustainable practices that cities can implement to manage stormwater. For example, some cities require new developments to install rainwater harvesting systems that collect and reuse stormwater for irrigation or other non-potable purposes.
Another approach is to use nature-based solutions, such as restoring wetlands and creating green corridors, to reduce runoff and protect water quality. Some cities have also implemented tree-planting programs that help absorb and filter stormwater.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is stormwater management?
Stormwater management refers to the management of rainfall and surface water runoff. In urban areas, stormwater can cause flooding and pollute our waterways with harmful pollutants.
Why is sustainable stormwater management important?
Sustainable stormwater management practices help to reduce the amount of pollution that enters our waterways. By reducing runoff, cities can protect our water quality and reduce the risk of flooding.
What are some examples of sustainable stormwater management practices?
Examples of sustainable stormwater management practices include green infrastructure, low-impact development, rainwater harvesting, and nature-based solutions.
How can green infrastructure be used to manage stormwater?
Green infrastructure solutions, such as green roofs and rain gardens, can absorb and filter stormwater, reducing the amount of runoff that enters our waterways.
What is low-impact development?
Low-impact development is an approach to development that mimics natural hydrologic processes, such as infiltration and evapotranspiration. LID practices include features like green roofs, permeable pavements, and rain gardens.
Preserving water resources
Sustainable stormwater management practices can help to protect our waterways from pollution and flooding. Cities can implement green infrastructure, low-impact development, and other sustainable practices to reduce the amount of runoff that enters our waterways. By working to manage stormwater in a sustainable manner, we can help to preserve our water resources for future generations.
What sustainable stormwater management practices have you seen in your community, and how can they be improved?