Why Stormwater Management Is Essential in Suburban Areas

Importance of Regular Stormwater Management Facilities Inspections

When natural, undisturbed earth is developed, much of the space is converted to impervious surface. Any impervious surface, including items such as roads, roofs, or sidewalks, does not allow water and snow to drain into the soil and thus increases the amount of stormwater runoff. Common practice is to prevent the stormwater runoff from traveling off the developed site, making detention or retention basins necessary. Regular inspections of stormwater management facilities are crucial for ensuring that these systems continue to function effectively and efficiently.

Why Stormwater Management Is Particularly Important in Suburban Areas

Stormwater management refers to the practice of managing the runoff of rainwater and melted snow from streets, lawns, driveways, and other sites to improve water quality and reduce the volume and speed of runoff.  Any new residential or commercial development is required to promote groundwater infiltration in addition to restricting the rate of stormwater to pre-development conditions.

• FLOODING CONTROL:  With many impervious surfaces such as roads, driveways, and rooftops, water is not allowed to infiltrate into the ground naturally. This can often result in flooding. Controlling the flow and distribution of stormwater reduces the incidence and severity of floods.
• POLLUTION REDUCTION:  Stormwater can pick up pollutants like oil, pesticides, sediments, heavy metals, and other contaminants as it flows over surfaces. This polluted runoff will end up in local waterways, affecting water quality and harming aquatic life. 
• EROSION CONTROL:  The increased flow of stormwater can lead to significant erosion of land where natural vegetation has been removed. Management systems help slow down runoff and allow it to be absorbed into the ground, reducing erosion.
• WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT:  Techniques like biofiltration, wetlands, and retention basins can remove contaminants and improve water quality before it discharges into larger bodies of water.
  

Benefits of Minimizing Downstream Stormwater Impact from Residential & Commercial Development

Instead of just retention and detention basins, there is increased interest in bio retention, rain gardens, and infiltration berms. Regular evaluations ensure that these facilities not only continue to perform their intended function but also adapt to evolving environmental conditions.

• MAINTAINING FUNCTIONALITY:  Over time, stormwater management facilities can become less effective due to sediment build-up, vegetation overgrowth, blockage by debris, or structural damage. Regular inspections help identify these issues so that necessary maintenance can be performed to keep the system functioning as designed. This will prevent the system from becoming overwhelmed during severe weather events.

• COST SAVINGS:  By addressing problems early, regular inspections can lead to significant cost savings as minor issues can be resolved easily and inexpensively. Conversely, neglected facilities might require extensive costly repairs or even complete replacements if problems are allowed to escalate.

• REGULATORY COMPLIANCE:  Suburban areas must comply with local, state, or federal regulations to manage stormwater to certain standards. Regular inspections help ensure that facilities are compliant with these laws, helping to avoid fines and legal issues. 

• EXTENDING LIFESPAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE:  Regular maintenance, guided by thorough inspections, can significantly extend the lifespan of stormwater management facilities. Evaluations reduce the need for major overhauls, promoting a more sustainable approach.



• ADAPTATION TO CHANGES:  As suburban areas grow and climates change, the dynamics of stormwater runoff also change. Inspections can also provide data useful for adapting stormwater management practices to these changes in environmental conditions or development. 
  

Protect the Environment with Regular Inspections by BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS, Inc.

Overall, current integrated approaches to stormwater management not only effectively control the threat but also contribute to the sustainability and livability of suburban communities. While stormwater facilities are needed to protect the environment and prevent downstream flooding, without proper maintenance they can be a liability risk. You can mitigate this risk by scheduling evaluations with a professional engineer at least two times per year and/or after intense storms. 

Most communities need a stormwater facility maintenance expert like BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS, who can inspect all aspects of the system and make recommendations for proper maintenance and repairs when required. If you’re not conducting annual stormwater evaluations as part of your overall stormwater management plan, start now. Having a management plan that includes annual stormwater inspections will provide the valuable information needed to put together long-term maintenance budgets. Our experienced stormwater management engineers are standing by ready to assist. Click to contact us online or call 215-394-6990 today…