Pervious Paving and Low Impact Development (LID)

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 infiltrates rainfall on site. The LID approach emphasizes site design and planning based on the natural path of water: infiltrating through healthy soils and gradually replenishing groundwater. This process sustains our streams with groundwater rather than the hard rush of storm water which brings pollution, degradation, and flooding.

Why is LID Important

to the environment?

• protects local and regional water quality by reducing delivery of sediment, nutrients, and other pollutants
• reduces stream bank erosion by controlling surges from storm sewers after rains
• stabilizes stream levels by restoring groundwater recharge into streams
• reduces potential for flooding

to residents?

• protects recreational and scenic waters
• adds open space
• increases a sense of community and creates community character
• increases resale value of property

to developers?

• reduces land clearing and grading costs
• increases value and marketability

to communities?

• reduces infrastructure and maintenance costs
• balances growth needs with environmental protection
• improves quality of life

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007