Low Impact Development and the Basics of Bioretention

Sept. 14, 2012

Date: Originally broadcast on September 18, 2012

Webinar Overview

Low Impact Development (LID) embodies a paradigm shift in how land is developed and how storm water is managed from that development. LID is achieved through the implementation of techniques that mimic pre-development hydrologic conditions by addressing storm water runoff at the source point versus the “end of the pipe.” The bioretention system, which reduces runoff volumes while decreasing pollutant loads found in nonpoint source flow, represents one of the most commonly applied Low Impact Development devices in green infrastructure today. This webinar will introduce the basics of bioretention systems, how they work, why they work and how they can save on project costs.

Throughout the 60 minute presentation the following will be discussed:

  • • Overview of the goals of Low Impact Development
  • • Metrics to measure effectiveness of LID
  • • What are bioretention systems?
  • • How do they work? Why do they work?
  • • Do soils matter?
  • • What tests do you need to perform in the field and why are the tests important?
  • • Sizing bioretention systems (different approaches)
  • • Designing bioretention systems on the landscape (design adjustments for soils and slopes)
  • • Engineered soil media
  • • Pollutant removal mechanisms
  • • Plants: Do we need them or not?
  • • Construction
  • • Maintenance
  • • Case Studies: The good and the bad

Participants will earn one Professional Development Hour (PDH).

For information about the speaker and to register to view archive, click here.