What Is Stormwater Management and Why Is It Important?

Stormwater management aims to reduce and channel rainwater runoff or melted snow from urban areas and homes to improve water quality. It also helps to reverse the negative effects of rural and urban stormwater flooding caused by agriculture and infrastructural constructions. 

Naturally, stormwater infiltrates the ground or evaporates. It results in increased surface runoff and this is when stormwater management surfaces come in handy. In urban areas with few plants, the surfaces are constructed to allow very little or no water to infiltrate the ground. In forests, the soil absorbs considerable amounts of water and plants hold significant amounts, ensuring that every little one runs off. Besides, plants are stems in the forest that slow down the runoff, ensuring the water slowly drains to the rivers and underground. 

That said, let’s highlight the importance of stormwater management. 

• It plays a vital role in the maintenance of healthy streams, lakes, and aquatic life by maintaining the natural hydrologic cycle.
• It prevents the increased risk of flooding. Areas that embrace stormwater management are less likely to experience the effects of flooding.
• Stormwater management reduces the speed and amount of water running into the streams, which prevents undesirable stream erosion. 
• Last but not least important point is that stormwater management plays a critical role in protecting water quality. Oil, metals, and pesticides from gardens tend to build upon surfaces. If stormwater is not managed, it can contaminate streams, lakes, and other water sources.