Abstract

This chapter introduces the concept of bioretention practices for stormwater management. Bioretention is a method of stormwater management using native plantings and soil conditioning. Bioretention areas are conceived to capture sheet flow from impervious surfaces and will be typically limited to small drainage areas from 0.25 to I acre. The material presented in this chapter is the result of a study to determine the technical feasibility of using bioretention for stormwater management. The following inter-related elements of bioretention are addressed:

1) hydrology / hydraulics,

2) plant materials suitability,

3) pollutant loading and nutrient balance, and

4) soil interaction.

The results of the study are reported including presentation of design or parameters for the following areas:

1) use of bioretention practices in the landscaped or graded green space areas for commercial and industrial sites,

2) development of plan and section details for bioretention practices in parking islands, parking edge, and perimeter areas, and

3) creation of guidelines for water storage for uptake by vegetation, and minimum surface area requirements.

A case study of the implementation of bioretention practices is also presented. The case study discusses bioretention area sizing, drainage, and cost considerations.

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