3 Approaches To Managing Stormwater

One of the side effects of heavy rains is the stormwater. Due to the unhindered growth of cities, towns and other human settlements, this stormwater takes the shape of a violent demon and destroys properties, fields and grounds. It also picks up debris, chemicals, grease, oils, metals etc. on the way and contaminates water bodies and habitats. 

People indulge in malpractices and throw rules to the wind while developing their properties only to regret when their properties flood with stormwater. Taking steps towards sustainable approaches to stormwater management would ensure safety of a community and society.

Stormwater is the water that doesn’t soak into the ground after heavy rains. The water instead runs off in stormwater drains, catchments or ditches. In cities, the effect of stormwater run-off could be seen through naked eyes since most of the cities have impervious surfaces. 

Timely panning of sustainable storm water management with low impact development practices would save not only properties from being damaged but also save thousands of lives.

Managing Stormwater

There are several ways to manage stormwater effectively but the most sustainable way is low impact development practices such as those provided by Storm Trap –  https://stormtrap.com/solutions/stormwater-lid.

The low impact development methods employ an approach that mitigates the harmful effect of stormwater at the source. It helps in slowing down the flow of storm water giving ample time for the water to soak into the ground. Below are three examples of low impact development that are effective in managing stormwater.

1. Rainwater Harvesting – Rainwater harvesting is the simplest means to manage stormwater. This low impact development method collects water from rooftops of buildings, houses and other impervious surfaces through channelized system and allows it to collect in tanks, sumps and cisterns. This technique reduces the quantity of storm water flow into gutters, stormwater drains and other stormwater-carrying systems. The water collected can be used for household purposes like cleaning, gardening and toilet flushing. The water needs to be filtered before use.

2. Green Roofs – Growing green vegetation on the roof is one of the low impact development methods that allow soaking of water into the soil used to nourish the plants. The water absorbed by plants and soil then slowly released into atmosphere through evapotranspiration. Green roofs also reduce the urban heat island effect that in turn helps in reducing the temperature of the entire city. It also doubles up as a habitat for birds and other life forms. There are three types of green roofs: extensive, semi-intensive and intensive green roofs. Selection of any one of the types depends on the built up area, atmosphere and budget.

3. Permeable Surfaces – Most of the surfaces in the cities doesn’t allow water to pass through. Usage of permeable hardscapes like pervious concrete and permeable pavers would allow water to pass through the gaps or cracks present on the surface area. The water then allowed to collect on an area of gravel aggregate. The water then slowly seeps down into the ground and replenishes ground water. This low impact development method helps in sharing the burden of carrying storm water from urban drains and reduces spilling of water on roads, footpaths and streets.