Bioswales
... absorb and transport large runoff events
What are Bioswales?
Bioswales are storm water runoff conveyance systems that provide an
alternative to storm sewers. They can absorb low flows or carry runoff from
heavy rains and snowmelt to storm sewer inlets or directly to surface waters.
Bioswales improve water quality by enhancing infiltration of the first flush of
storm water runoff and filtering the large storm flows they convey. About 30 to
40 percent of Montana’s annual precipitation comes from small rain events. Much
of the value of bioswales comes from filtering nearly all of this water.
This bioswale is planted with native sweetgrass (Hierochloe odorata.)
A road ditch can serve as a bioswale. The rock trench and wetland vegetation are
notable features along with the natural drainageway in the background that
serves as a bioswale for residential runoff.
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Last Modified:
07/16/2007
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