Methods to Reduce Urban Runoff - AP Environmental Science
- What is the advantage of using mulch?
- Reduces soil erosion and aids water retention. Protects soil surface and improves water infiltration rates.
- What is the role of detention basins?
- To temporarily hold and slow runoff. Provide flood control by temporarily storing excess water.
- How do vegetated swales help reduce runoff?
- By channeling and filtering stormwater. Shallow channels slow flow and allow natural filtration.
- What is the use of vegetative buffers?
- To filter runoff and protect water bodies. Vegetation strips that intercept and treat runoff.
- How does zoning influence urban runoff?
- Zoning laws can limit impervious surfaces. Regulations can require pervious surfaces and green infrastructure.
- What is the purpose of a rain chain?
- To guide rainwater from roofs to storage or ground. Alternative to downspouts that slows water flow velocity.
- How do roof gardens benefit urban runoff control?
- They absorb rainwater and reduce runoff. Living roof systems that capture and retain precipitation.
- How do urban ponds contribute to runoff control?
- They retain and treat stormwater. Water features that provide storage and natural treatment.
- What is the role of soil amendments in runoff control?
- They improve soil structure and water infiltration. Enhanced soil properties increase water absorption capacity.
- How does using native vegetation impact runoff?
- It reduces water needs and improves infiltration. Adapted plants require less irrigation and improve soil health.
- What is a stormwater tree trench?
- A system using trees to manage stormwater. Combines tree planting with underground water storage systems.
- What is a permeable paver?
- A paving material that allows water infiltration. Alternative to traditional concrete that promotes infiltration.
- How can urban gardens reduce runoff?
- They capture and use rainwater. Plants intercept rainfall and reduce surface runoff volume.
- What is a bioswale?
- A vegetated channel that filters stormwater. Engineered landscape feature that treats runoff naturally.
- What is the purpose of curb cuts in urban design?
- To direct stormwater to permeable areas. Breaks in curbs allow water flow into vegetated areas.
- What is xeriscaping?
- Landscaping to reduce water usage. Drought-resistant landscaping that reduces irrigation runoff.
- What is the purpose of green roofs?
- To absorb rainwater and reduce runoff. Vegetation intercepts rainfall and retains water in growing medium.
- Name a method to reduce impervious surfaces.
- Use of permeable paving materials. Reduces surface area that prevents water infiltration.
- What is a dry well?
- An underground structure for stormwater infiltration. Underground infiltration system for localized water management.
- How do infiltration basins function?
- They allow stormwater to soak into the ground. Designed to capture and infiltrate stormwater runoff.
- What is an eco-roof?
- A roof covered with vegetation. Green roof system that manages stormwater naturally.
- Identify a strategy to enhance soil infiltration.
- Amending soil with organic matter. Improves soil porosity and water-holding capacity.
- What is the role of native plants in runoff reduction?
- Deep roots enhance water absorption. Native species require less water and improve soil structure.
- What is low impact development (LID)?
- An approach to manage stormwater close to its source. Integrates development with natural hydrologic functions.
- What is the benefit of using rain barrels?
- To collect and store rainwater for later use. Reduces demand on municipal water and stormwater systems.
- How does urban planning impact runoff?
- Effective planning reduces impervious surfaces. Strategic design minimizes impermeable surfaces and maximizes infiltration.
- What is a green infrastructure?
- Systems that mimic natural water processes. Sustainable approach using natural processes for water management.
- How does tree planting reduce urban runoff?
- Trees absorb water through their roots. Canopy intercepts rainfall and roots increase soil infiltration.
- Identify a benefit of using porous asphalt.
- Allows water to infiltrate into the ground. Reduces surface runoff by promoting groundwater recharge.
- Identify a method to minimize soil erosion.
- Plant cover crops on bare soil. Vegetation protects soil from erosion and increases infiltration.
- What is a rain garden?
- A landscaped area that absorbs and filters stormwater. Designed to capture runoff and allow natural infiltration processes.
- What is the function of constructed wetlands?
- They treat and filter stormwater naturally. Provide biological treatment and habitat while managing water.
- What is the function of catch basins?
- To trap debris and prevent drain blockages. Infrastructure component that protects drainage systems.
- What is the purpose of grassed waterways?
- To convey and filter stormwater runoff. Vegetated channels that slow flow and remove pollutants.
- What is an infiltration trench?
- A trench filled with gravel that aids water infiltration. Provides underground storage and promotes groundwater recharge.
- What role do retention ponds play in urban runoff management?
- They store and slowly release stormwater. Provide temporary storage to prevent downstream flooding.