Low Impact Development

Definition

Low Impact Development (LID) is a land planning and engineering approach aimed at managing stormwater runoff while maintaining or restoring the natural hydrology of a site. By using various techniques that mimic natural processes, LID seeks to reduce the impact of development on water quality and quantity, effectively protecting aquatic ecosystems and enhancing urban resilience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Low Impact Development emphasizes the use of decentralized techniques to manage stormwater close to its source, which can significantly reduce the need for traditional drainage systems.
2. Techniques used in LID include green roofs, rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements, all designed to mimic the natural water cycle.
3. LID contributes to improved water quality by reducing pollutants in runoff before it enters local waterways.
4. Implementing LID can also enhance urban aesthetics and biodiversity by creating green spaces that support wildlife.
5. Many municipalities are adopting LID practices as part of their stormwater management plans to comply with regulatory requirements and promote sustainable urban development.

Review Questions

• How does Low Impact Development utilize natural processes to manage stormwater, and what are some specific techniques involved?
  • Low Impact Development utilizes natural processes by mimicking the natural hydrology of a site to manage stormwater runoff effectively. Specific techniques involved in LID include green roofs that absorb rainfall, rain gardens that filter pollutants, bioswales that slow down water flow, and permeable pavements that allow water to infiltrate into the ground. By implementing these techniques, LID reduces runoff volume and improves water quality, making urban areas more resilient to storm events.
• Discuss how Low Impact Development practices can lead to improved water quality and the protection of aquatic ecosystems.
  • Low Impact Development practices enhance water quality by treating stormwater at its source before it enters local waterways. Techniques such as bioretention areas and vegetated swales help filter out sediments, nutrients, and pollutants from runoff. This reduction in contaminants not only benefits water quality but also protects aquatic ecosystems by preventing harmful substances from entering rivers and streams. As a result, LID promotes healthier habitats for aquatic life while supporting sustainable urban growth.
• Evaluate the challenges associated with implementing Low Impact Development in urban settings and suggest potential solutions.
  • Implementing Low Impact Development in urban settings can face challenges such as limited space for green infrastructure, initial costs for installation, and resistance from stakeholders unfamiliar with LID benefits. To overcome these issues, cities can promote education on LID advantages, create incentives for developers to adopt these practices, and integrate LID into existing infrastructure upgrades. By addressing these challenges through collaboration and innovative design, urban areas can successfully incorporate LID to improve stormwater management and environmental sustainability.

Related terms

Green Infrastructure: A network of natural and semi-natural systems that manage stormwater, enhance biodiversity, and provide other environmental benefits in urban areas.

Bioretention: A stormwater management practice that uses plants, soil, and microbes to filter and treat runoff, typically through a landscaped area designed to capture and infiltrate water.

Permeable Pavement: A type of paving material that allows water to infiltrate through its surface, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge.