A constructed basin designed to manage stormwater runoff is a prevalent feature in many developed areas. These basins are engineered to temporarily hold water after a rainfall event. This temporary storage allows for the gradual release of the water, typically through a controlled outlet, reducing the risk of downstream flooding and erosion. For example, a residential development may incorporate one of these structures to manage rainwater runoff from roofs, driveways, and streets before it enters the local waterway.
The primary purpose of such systems is to improve water quality and mitigate the impacts of urbanization on natural drainage systems. By holding stormwater, these basins allow sediment and pollutants to settle out, thereby cleaning the water before it is discharged. This process helps protect downstream ecosystems and water supplies. Historically, these systems have become increasingly important as urban expansion increases impervious surfaces, leading to greater volumes and rates of stormwater runoff.
