1. Use permeable materials for hardscapes such as walkways, patios, and driveways. Permeable pavers or porous concrete allow water to penetrate and be absorbed into the ground rather than running off into gutters and storm drains.
2. Install rain gardens or bioswales in low-lying areas to capture, filter, and slow down stormwater runoff. These features are designed with a variety of plants and soils that help absorb and filter pollutants from the water.
3. Create green roofs and walls to provide additional areas for stormwater to be absorbed. Green roofs are planted with vegetation that can absorb water, while green walls use plants to help filter runoff.
4. Use native plants in landscaping as they require less water and are better adapted to local conditions, reducing the need for irrigation and runoff.
5. Install rain barrels or cisterns to capture rainwater from roofs and use it for watering plants or washing cars instead of letting it run off.
6. Grade landscapes to encourage water to flow away from buildings and towards intended areas of absorption.
7. Install a simple rain garden or connect a downspout extension to a nearby garden bed to slow and filter stormwater runoff.
8. Incorporate soil enhancement techniques like compost tea or mycorrhizal fungus into landscape designs to improve the soil’s ability to absorb water.
Overall, designing with stormwater management in mind includes using permeable materials, incorporating plant life that can absorb water and pollutants, and capturing rainwater.
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