The challenges of stormwater management

The challenges to engineers and developers for handling stormwater in municipalities are considered. The implications of the Environmental Protection Agency's National pollutant Discharge Elimination System for stormwater management are outlined. Ponds have traditionally been used to manage stormwater, but high land costs have led to the development of subsurface options. Removal of contaminants by infiltration through soil is described. The different approaches used in different regions of the USA are outlined. The development of economical and effective technologies is discussed with reference to new standards for stormwater products, testing and performance.