How to Reduce Stormwater Runoff

Stormwater runoff is a growing concern for communities across the country. In undeveloped natural areas, between 10% and 20% of rainfall runs off. The remaining water gets absorbed into the ground.

Land that’s covered by roads, homes, and driveways doesn’t give rainwater many options to get absorbed. This contributes to localized flooding and contamination.

Stormwater runoff takes nutrients and contaminants with it, leaving it to runoff into streams and rivers. These pollutants kill fish and living organisms in the water.

As storms become fiercer because of climate change, the little contributions you can make to curb stormwater runoff make a huge difference.

If you want to know how you can do your part to protect your local environment, keep reading to learn the top ways you can reduce stormwater runoff.

1. Audit Your Property

Auditing is important for commercial properties because businesses have to comply with environmental guidelines. Construction projects have to do the same as well.

They use a stormwater inspection form to assess the runoff and ensure project sites are within guidelines.

You can also use a stormwater audit to assess your property. Inspect your property in clear weather and after a storm. Note the differences around your property.

2. Limit Slabs of Concrete

Walkways and paths are usually made of large slabs of concrete. These slabs don’t give water anywhere to go.

Brake up the slabs of concrete by replacing them with pavers or slate slabs. These materials allow you to create a space in between steps.

That gives water a place to go. Grass grows and rainwater gets absorbed more easily.

3. Use Rain Barrels

Rain barrels are great to use because they collect rainwater from your gutters. The water doesn’t runoff.

Instead, you can reuse the water for your garden and grass. Your plants will thrive because they’re getting natural water that’s free of chlorine and other chemicals.

4. Plant Trees

Trees can add beauty to your yard and they can help reduce stormwater runoff. Their leaves give your yard a canopy to reduce erosion during heavy rainfall.

Their roots like to soak up water and they help improve the quality of the soil.

Now, if you want to provide an extra layer of protection, use mulch around the trees. Mulch provides an extra layer of absorption before the tree absorbs rainwater.

Mulch prevents water from ponding around your trees.

5. Plant a Roof Garden

Residential flat roof structures have limited options to reduce rainwater. A rooftop garden gives you a chance to grow plants and limit the amount of stormwater runoff.

The plants absorb the water, as opposed to the water running down drains. The roof must be strong enough to support the weight of a garden.

Do Your Part to Reduce Stormwater Runoff

You can reduce the effects of stormwater runoff by planting trees, redoing walkways, and using rain barrels. These simple stormwater runoff solutions will make a big difference to the environment.

Did you learn a lot about stormwater runoff? You’ll learn a lot more from the other articles on this site. Head over to the home page and check them out today!