Stormwater retention is surplus rainfall that runs into bigger bodies of water and local storm drainage systems, owing to the presence of hard surfaces such as concrete in the surrounding area. Large amounts of water would normally be absorbed into the earth in a more natural setting rather than entering streams and lakes. As it runs over paved surfaces and into bodies of water, stormwater retention accumulates pollutants, chemicals, and debris. It also causes erosion, reduces groundwater recharge, and changes aquatic ecosystems.
Stormwater retention pits are ponds built to treat and retain rainwater runoff. Retention pits are long-term pools of standing water that ultimately drain into a receiving body of water.
The following are some of the advantages of stormwater retention pits
Keep The Natural Hydrologic Cycle Going
Stormwater management is essential for sustaining healthy streams, lakes, and aquatic life and supporting human usage by preserving the natural hydrologic cycle.
Infiltration may decrease without appropriate stormwater management, decreasing soil replenishment and groundwater recharge. It is worth mentioning that soil moisture is necessary for the survival of plants, which is why it plays a part in the maintenance of the natural hydrologic cycle. Furthermore, the loss of groundwater recharge may decrease the baseflow in streams and the flow between storms, both of which are essential for aquatic life.
Prevent A Rise In The Likelihood Of Floods.
Effective stormwater retention pit aids in the control of floods. Areas that practice stormwater management have a lower risk of flooding and, as a result, are less likely to suffer the negative consequences of floods. Flooding is more probable in urban areas and regions with less vegetation after heavy rains unless appropriate management methods are employed.
In these regions, thunderstorm intensity increases precipitation runoff, and the existence of drainage systems accelerates flow to streams. Furthermore, in regions without appropriate stormwater management methods, flooding is more likely to result in loss of life and property damage.
Prevent Harmful Stream Erosion
Stormwater retention pit helps avoid excessive erosion by decreasing the speed and volume of water flowing into streams. If stormwater is not managed properly, it may create severe erosion, preventing the stream from performing its natural role of transporting water and debris.
Furthermore, without stormwater management, rainwater may cause streams and rivers to overflow, influencing the lives of the neighboring people. A flooded creek will overflow its banks, causing the extra water to flood the neighboring fields and damage crops.
Keep Water Quality In Check
Stormwater retention is essential for maintaining water quality. From gardening and regular everyday usage, grease, oil, insecticides, metals, plastic, and pesticides tend to accumulate on surfaces. If stormwater is not managed properly, pollutants may be carried to water sources such as streams, lakes, seas, and even groundwater.
Pollution is particularly severe in metropolitan locations, where pavement degradation, tire and brake pad wear, and vehicle emissions and spills may readily make their way into water sources. Some of these contaminants may be removed from the water before entering the streams using stormwater management systems.
Keep Soil Erosion At Bay
Stormwater retention pits may have an impact on agricultural production by washing away the rich soil layer. It may also carry plant waste in addition to topsoil, reducing agricultural output.