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Managing Stormwater Runoff
As native vegetation is removed and replaced with impervious surfaces such roads, parking lots, and buildings, rainwater is no longer absorbed by plants or able to slowly infiltrate into the soil. In cities and developed areas, rainwater will run off at a much higher rate than it did before the existing vegetation was removed, resulting in pollutants and sediments being washed from impervious surfaces and into our bays and streams during rain events.
Stormwater Facilities
Stormwater facilities are engineered structures designed to convey
stormwater runoff to help remove pollutants and prevent localized
flooding. These stormwater structures can include
ponds, swales,
catch basins, pipes, underground tanks and vaults, intended to capture
and treat stormwater runoff before it is released downstream or into the
groundwater supply. Since stormwater facilities are man-made
structures, they require regular maintenance to insure they continue to
function as designed over time.
How you can help prevent stormwater pollution
If your neighborhood or private property contains stormwater facilities,
you can help keep these facilities functioning properly by
performing simple, routine
maintenance on ponds, swales and catch basins.
Even if you're not responsible for the maintenance of a constructed
stormwater facility, you can still make a difference by
reducing stormwater pollution.
Stormwater Video
The following video, produced by King County, describes stormwater runoff and why it's important to manage it. Some of the phrasing pertains only to King County, but the video provides a good overview. Enjoy!
Stormwater Matters: What is stormwater and why is it important? from King County DNRP on Vimeo.
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Contact us at (360) 754-4681
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