What is one of the main benefits of a good stormwater system?

A well-designed stormwater system is crucial for managing the quantity and quality of water runoff, especially in urban environments. Moving water quickly is an essential function of these systems as it prevents the accumulation of excessive water on surfaces, minimizing the risk of flooding and helping to maintain the integrity of infrastructure. In addition, promoting vegetation can be a secondary benefit when water is channeled appropriately, as it can support the health of nearby plant life that relies on adequate drainage and water availability.

The design of such systems is typically focused on efficiently directing water to appropriate drainage areas, allowing it to either be absorbed by the ground or directed to treatment facilities where it can be filtered before entering larger bodies of water. Rapid movement of water helps to prevent problems associated with standing water, such as the breeding of mosquitoes and the degradation of water quality.

While encouraging vegetation can sometimes complement a stormwater system, the primary advantage lies in the effective management of water flow itself, ensuring that urban areas can handle storm events without significant disruption or damage.