Methods to Reduce Urban Runoff - AP Environmental Science

Zoning laws can limit impervious surfaces. Regulations can require pervious surfaces and green infrastructure.

To convey and filter stormwater runoff. Vegetated channels that slow flow and remove pollutants.

They capture and use rainwater. Plants intercept rainfall and reduce surface runoff volume.

An approach to manage stormwater close to its source. Integrates development with natural hydrologic functions.

Use of permeable paving materials. Reduces surface area that prevents water infiltration.

To direct stormwater to permeable areas. Breaks in curbs allow water flow into vegetated areas.

Trees absorb water through their roots. Canopy intercepts rainfall and roots increase soil infiltration.

Allows water to infiltrate into the ground. Reduces surface runoff by promoting groundwater recharge.

A trench filled with gravel that aids water infiltration. Provides underground storage and promotes groundwater recharge.

To direct stormwater to permeable areas. Breaks in curbs allow water flow into vegetated areas.

To collect and store rainwater for later use. Reduces demand on municipal water and stormwater systems.

It reduces water needs and improves infiltration. Adapted plants require less irrigation and improve soil health.

They retain and treat stormwater. Water features that provide storage and natural treatment.

Plant cover crops on bare soil. Vegetation protects soil from erosion and increases infiltration.

To guide rainwater from roofs to storage or ground. Alternative to downspouts that slows water flow velocity.

To convey and filter stormwater runoff. Vegetated channels that slow flow and remove pollutants.

An underground structure for stormwater infiltration. Underground infiltration system for localized water management.

They treat and filter stormwater naturally. Provide biological treatment and habitat while managing water.

Effective planning reduces impervious surfaces. Strategic design minimizes impermeable surfaces and maximizes infiltration.

They store and slowly release stormwater. Provide temporary storage to prevent downstream flooding.

Use of permeable paving materials. Reduces surface area that prevents water infiltration.

Reduces soil erosion and aids water retention. Protects soil surface and improves water infiltration rates.

Allows water to infiltrate into the ground. Reduces surface runoff by promoting groundwater recharge.

Amending soil with organic matter. Improves soil porosity and water-holding capacity.

To absorb rainwater and reduce runoff. Vegetation intercepts rainfall and retains water in growing medium.

A vegetated channel that filters stormwater. Engineered landscape feature that treats runoff naturally.

Trees absorb water through their roots. Canopy intercepts rainfall and roots increase soil infiltration.

Landscaping to reduce water usage. Drought-resistant landscaping that reduces irrigation runoff.

To trap debris and prevent drain blockages. Infrastructure component that protects drainage systems.