Components of a Storm Water System

1. 1. Catch Basins and Inlets:

      • Function: Collect runoff from streets and other surfaces.
      • Features: Grates or covers to prevent debris from entering the system.
      • Benefits: Prevents flooding on streets and directs water to the storm drain system.

   2. Storm Drains and Pipes:

      • Function: Transport collected stormwater to treatment facilities or discharge points.
      • Features: Underground pipes of varying sizes.
      • Benefits: Efficiently move large volumes of water away from populated areas.

   3. Detention and Retention Basins:

      • Function: Temporarily hold stormwater to reduce peak runoff and allow sedimentation.
      • Features: Designed basins or ponds, often with controlled outflow structures.
      • Benefits: Reduce flooding risk, promote groundwater recharge, improve water quality.

   4. Swales and Bioswales:

      • Function: Convey and filter runoff using vegetated, sloped channels.
      • Features: Grass, plants, or other vegetation that helps absorb and filter water.
      • Benefits: Enhance water quality, promote infiltration, reduce runoff velocity.

   5. Green Infrastructure:

      • Examples: Green roofs, rain gardens, permeable pavements.
      • Function: Use natural processes to manage stormwater at its source.
      • Benefits: Improve urban aesthetics, provide habitat, reduce heat island effect, enhance infiltration.

   6. Outfall Structures:

      • Function: Discharge treated or managed stormwater into natural water bodies.
      • Features: Structures like pipes or channels leading to rivers, lakes, or oceans.
      • Benefits: Safely release water while minimizing erosion and water quality impact.