Stormwater Detention Ponds

These are the most common practices for handling polluted stormwater runoff and flooding. They work by retaining stormwater for a period of time to allow for particle settling and then release the cleaner water at a much slower rate.

Swale

This is a depression or ditch designed to retain stormwater, which typically contains standing or flowing water only after a rainfall, the intent being to filter stormwater through the ground. Swales should not be filled in. Leaves, vegetation, limbs and debris should not be disposed of in a swale. Pollutants in these materials will be carried with the stormwater and the benefit of the swale will be lost. Ditch blocks or cross blocks are installed in some swales to slow the flow of stormwater, thereby increasing percolation and filtering through the ground.

Trash Rack

These common devices are fitted over stormwater culvert outlets so that leaves, twigs and other debris cannot enter the pipe. Sometimes, trash naturally enters the storm sewers with fast-flowing waters, but residents still need to keep an eye on their local storm grates and clear them of leaves and debris once in awhile. It is also important to keep leaves out of the gutters for the same reason.

Rock Culvert

These are simply drainage ditches that have been lined with rock to help slow down the velocity of flowing water. Stormwater engineers measure the amount of water the ditch can handle per second. This is important in predicting the flood potential of ditches. Slowing the water's velocity curbs soil erosion, protects the channel and reduces flash flooding.

Porous Pavement

Starting at the development stage in planning for stormwater management makes sense both economically and aesthetically. Minimizing pavement when planning a development increases the surface area available for infiltration of water, thereby minimizing runoff. When there is a need for pavement, new porous brick material allows for runoff infiltration. There is also more opportunity for intricate designs in pavement using these bricks, improving the aesthetics of the overall development.

Constructed Wetlands

One way to address the problems associated with polluted stormwater runoff is through the installation of constructed stormwater wetlands. Properly designed, stormwater wetlands can decrease the frequency and severity of flooding while improving water quality. Constructed wetlands should be integrated into an appropriate stormwater management strategy.