Before our region was developed, forests and open spaces absorbed rainwater. As we built cities and towns and added hard surfaces (impervious surfaces), the amount and rate of rainwater runoff (also known as stormwater) entering rivers and stormwater pipes increased significantly. That rainwater also picks up pollutants as it flows across impervious areas. If not properly managed, rainwater can carry pollutants to rivers, erode and flood river banks or overload the storm sewer system. Sustainable stormwater facilities (i.e. Low Impact Development-LID) attempt to mimic the natural water cycle. They function to slow and reduce the amount of stormwater that enters rivers and pipes as well as filter pollutants to protect our infrastructure and watersheds. Many communities require developers to install stormwater facilities, like rain gardens, swales and planters. Further, they require property owners to follow an Operations and Maintenance Plan to ensure that stormwater facilities continue to work over time.
Keywords: maintenance, stormwater, rain garden, swale, planter, inspection, pruning