What is the primary purpose of stormwater management practices?

The primary purpose of stormwater management practices is to control runoff and mitigate pollutants. Stormwater refers to water from rain or melting snow that flows over surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and rooftops, which can lead to increased water pollution. Effective stormwater management aims to manage this runoff through a variety of techniques designed to reduce its volume and improve its quality before it discharges into water bodies or infiltrates into the ground.

By implementing strategies like detention basins, green roofs, permeable pavements, and vegetated swales, communities can minimize the negative effects of stormwater, which can include flooding, erosion, and the introduction of harmful contaminants into water systems. These practices not only help protect water quality but also enhance the overall health of ecosystems that rely on clean water.

While improving aesthetic appeal and promoting agricultural development are beneficial in their own right, they do not address the core issues of runoff control or pollutant mitigation. Enhancing groundwater recharge is a secondary benefit of some stormwater management practices but is not the primary goal, as the main focus is on managing runoff and ensuring that pollutants are effectively handled.