Bioswales and Low Impact Development

Low Impact Development

Traditionally, storm water management has involved the rapid conveyance of water via storm sewers to surface waters. Low Impact Development (LID) is a different approach that retains and promotes rainfall infiltration onsite. The LID approach emphasizes site design and planning techniques that mimic the natural infiltration-based, groundwater-driven hydrology of our historic landscape. Bioswales are one component of LID.

Why is LID Important

to the environment?

• protects sensitive areas
• increases habitat for wildlife by preserving trees and vegetation
• protects local and regional water quality by reducing sediment and nutrient loads
• reduces streambank and channel erosion by reducing the frequent surges/bounces of higher flows from storm sewer discharges
• stabilizes stream flow by reducing variability of surface runoff; restores ground water discharges into receiving surface waters
• reduces potential for flooding

to residents?

• increases community character
• improves quality of life
• increases open space
• pedestrian friendly

to developers?

• reduces land clearing and grading costs
• reduces infrastructure costs (streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks)
• increases community marketability

to communities?

• balances growth needs with environmental protection
• reduces infrastructure and utility maintenance costs

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007