What Is Stormwater Management?

The definition can vary from region to region as some states and municipalities consider stormwater management to be a part of or the same as watershed management. In general, stormwater management is specifically concerned with runoff from rain events, storms and melted snow. It aims to reduce and control the amount of runoff that makes its way into the stormways and ultimately streams, rivers, and the ocean. With impervious surfaces increasing with new construction of buildings, roads, parking lots, etc., there is an increase in the amount of runoff that previously infiltrated the ground that now can cause flooding. It’s important to mitigate these impacts as much as possible.

Why Is Stormwater Management Important?

There are environmental concerns related to stormwater management; runoff can carry bacteria, chemicals and other pollutants into local aquifers and rivers which can harm waterway ecosystems. Additionally, stormwater management seeks to divert this runoff into channels for detention and/or collection and filtration, making it useful for cities later in potable and non-potable applications.

Water Quality

Preventing pollution of rivers and streams by contaminated runoff is the most primary concern of any stormwater management plan. The environmental impact around commercial and industrial areas is of primary concern as harmful chemicals and carcinogens can contaminate watersheds and rivers, destroying local ecosystems and rendering them unsafe for human consumption.

Runoff Control

By controlling the velocity and volume of runoff through various channels, you can manage flood risk and prevent storm damage. Good stormwater management practices include various tools and construction techniques to handle stormwater runoff, including proper landscaping and installation of gutters, drains, channels, and collection vessels to control how much water moves in which direction.

Infiltration of Groundwater

Another area of focus for your stormwater management system is providing for groundwater infiltration to restore underground water tables and aquifers while preventing leaching of harmful byproducts into the soil. Natural refilling of underground aquifers is interrupted by impermeable surfaces, such as city streets, driveways and buildings. By developing stormwater services that encourage the infiltration of safe, uncontaminated groundwater that won't overburden local flood plains, water tables can be restored adequately.

By addressing each of these areas, you can mitigate flood risk while developing a renewable water resource that doesn't impede — and may even assist — in managing flood risk and restoring aquifers.