Bioswales are stormwater runoff conveyance systems that can absorb low flows or heavy rains to improve water quality by filtering storm water.
Benefits & Problems Addressed
Bioswales manage stormwater runoff by capturing, filtering and/or re-using rainfall otherwise directed untreated to gutters, pipes and waterways. Bioswales can be incorporated into exiisting building sites, infrastructure, landscaped areas and parks.
Tips & Techniques
Plant Selection: The thicker and heavier the grasses, the better the swale can filter out contaminants.
• Hot Buttons: Beds require maintenance (trash, weeds) as well as periodic tilling to maintain performance. Some designs can pose real and perceived trip hazards
Example
Urban Green-blue Grids, atelier GROENBLAUW
Sustainable Cities Institute
Oregon Dept. Environmental Quality Stormwater Program