Storm-water management in new subdivisions

 

This is a storm-water management pond. These are deep ponds are created in new sudivisions to gather and temporarily store rainfall and surface water runoff. These ponds temporarily stores water and then releases it at a controlled rate. This results in erosion protection throughout the area and flood control with the added bonus of improved water quality.

Storm-water ponds are also attractive features in a new neighbourhood. The environmental benefits are not immediately obvious. If you look closely, you will notice these ponds are surrounded by natural vegetation to provide wildlife habitat. The buffer areas surrounding the ponds are left to grow wild. The buffers are never trimmed or mowed.

Folks in the area are encouraged to eliminate the use of pesticides and limit the use of plant fertilizer. In winter, salt use should be minimal.

One wouldn't think the ponds are designed to prevent mosquito breeding but they are. Mosquitoes need shallow, standing water; storm-water ponds are deep and water is kept flowing. The water from the ponds typically drains below the surface, impeding mosquitoes from laying their eggs.