Why is a Stormwater Plan Important?

7 AJB Stormwater.pdf

 A Stormwater Master Plan is a comprehensive plan that allows a community to evaluate stormwater drainage and existing utilities; identify and understand problems; prioritize capital improvement and maintenance goals; and plan future improvements to correct problems. The document is a starting point and tool that is useful for development of more detailed plans to address specific stormwater concerns.

Changes in land use can have a significant impact on watershed hydrology and water quality. Increasing impervious area and alteration of the natural landscape has a major effect on movement of stormwater, magnitude of flows, and the cleanliness runoff water.  Keeping up with these changes can be challenging.  It is not uncommon for communities to have limited or inaccurate information about drainage patterns and how they influence the performance of existing stormwater systems.

Problems that arise from inadequate drainage infrastructure may lead to public concerns with poor drainage, flooding, stream erosion, water quality, or other environmental impacts.  Often there are needs to develop a plan to protect areas with stormwater issues and to implement and carryout stormwater goals. 

Stormwater Master Plans include a wide range of information that is practical for immediate project needs or long-term stormwater management planning.  They can be used to quantify runoff, analyze problems, and identify future needs for stormwater infrastructure. Additionally, they provide alternatives and costs to consider when addressing drainage problems, flooding, and water quality concerns.

Your Stormwater Master Plan Should Include:

Drainage Basin Research
A hydrologic investigation is an important first step in understanding stormwater characteristics for a region.  Drainage basin research is conducted to examine land use, rainfall, and runoff patterns. Topography, soil types, impervious cover, low areas, and discharge points are commonly studied to determine where stormwater flows and how much runoff to expect from different storm events.

Inventory & Evaluation
Background research and site evaluations are completed to document inventory for existing stormwater utilities.  Survey data and field notes are used to establish a complete record of structures, pipes, drainage ways, and other parts of a system.  Age, condition, and maintenance needs are considered when evaluating capabilities for stormwater collection and conveyance. Stormwater systems may include surface flow in channels, structure collection, pipe conveyance, facilities for stormwater detention, or other infiltration and water quality practices. 

 Modeling & Technical Studies
Computer programs for modeling drainage basins and stormwater systems are tools used to accurately and efficiently complete hydrologic and hydraulic analyses. Computations are completed to quantify peak runoff flows, channel and pipe capacities, detention storage requirements, flood elevations, and other parameters that can be used for stormwater system evaluation and planning.  Stormwater modeling provides a detailed picture of how much runoff to expect, where surface water flows, and how existing or proposed systems will intercept, convey, and manage stormwater.

Problem Identification
Recognizing the source and magnitude of problems is essential for effective stormwater improvements planning. Stormwater issues are often associated with inadequate or aging structures, property flooding and damage, drainage issues, insufficient maintenance, channel erosion, or other water quality concerns. 

Alternatives Development
Alternatives for stormwater improvements are developed for the specific problems and needs in each area.  In some cases an economical minor repair may be adequate.  In other situations, major capital improvement projects may be necessary for long-term planning. The alternatives are intended to provide options for consideration while addressing flooding, water quality, or other public stormwater concerns.  In general, alternatives for improvements may include maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and expansion of the stormwater system. The alternatives typically include conceptual designs and estimated costs for project budgeting.

Planning & Recommendations
Planning for stormwater improvements will require prioritizing problem areas and deciding which alternatives will best meet the needs of the community.  A single project or repair may be enough to address immediate concerns.  However, implementing a combination of planned improvements over time could be the most effective for long-term success with stormwater management.  A Stormwater Master Plan will provide planning guidance and recommendations for improvements that will focus on eliminating problems in areas with failing drainage systems and improve areas without systems.

Overall, stormwater management is needed to meet increasing demands for stormwater capacity, better conveyance, and improved water quality.  Proper planning helps mitigate potential stormwater damage to property and ensure public safety and health.  A Stormwater Master Plan is an effective means for identifying the stormwater needs for a community, setting goals, and planning successful projects.

Call us. We would be happy to share information about Stormwater Master Plans

Contact:
FOX Engineering Associates, Inc.
Aaron J. Bousselot, P.E., CFM (Certified Floodplain Manager)
800.433.3469
www.foxeng.com