Mountain Stormwater

Most stormwater management discussions focus on urbanized land development and its effect on water quality.  We know that land development alters natural hydrology by blocking the surface with buildings and pavement. Connecting these impervious areas - such as draining roofs onto parking areas and into storm sewer pipes -maximizes runoff and removes water from both small and large storms.

Even though land development in the mountains appears less "urbanized," the effects on mountain land and waterways are similar to the effects in the Plains: Concentrated flows from impervious areas cause erosion and sedimentation, and degrade natural waterways.

The following are some stormwater management techniques for mountain environments. These techniques focus on diffusing and slowing concentrated flows or changing concentrated flows from developed areas back into sheet flow. The structures help to mimic predevelopment hydrology by infiltrating runoff, recharging fractures, protecting base flow, riparian corridors and receiving surface waters.

This database is compiled and maintained by the CASFM Stormwater Quality Committee.  Please submit photos and summaries for other structures that may be added to this list. Also send additional information about existing structures in this database to Herman Feissner at hfeissner@feissnerconsulting.com or Holly Piza at hpiza@udfcd.org.