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Stormwater Facilities

Definition

Stormwater facilities are structures or systems designed to manage and control the flow of stormwater, which is rainwater that runs off from surfaces like roads, parking lots, and rooftops. These facilities help prevent flooding, reduce pollution in water bodies, and recharge groundwater.

Analogy

Think of stormwater facilities as giant sponges that soak up rainwater from urban areas. Just like a sponge absorbs water to prevent spills on a countertop, stormwater facilities absorb excess rainwater to prevent flooding in cities.

Related terms

Green Infrastructure: Green infrastructure refers to natural or nature-based systems such as green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements that mimic natural processes to manage stormwater runoff.

Detention Basins: Detention basins are large depressions or ponds designed to temporarily store excess stormwater during heavy rainfall events before slowly releasing it into nearby water bodies.

Bioswales: Bioswales are vegetated channels or ditches that collect and filter stormwater runoff by allowing it to infiltrate into the soil while removing pollutants.