Civil Engineering and urban planning stormwater management for San Diego California - It's not just about floods and pollution anymore

 

When rain falls, or excess water is used, urban runoff drains through California Urban alleys and street gutters, into grated inlets and catch basins, which connect through storm drains and outfalls to the local  Creeks, Rivers and Oceans. Regulators call this drainage infrastructure the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System or MS4. When the sanitary sewer and MS4 systems were constructed, many decades ago, people were primarily concerned with preventing flooding and sanitary sewage caused river water pollution. 

Today, urban runoff is a leading causes of water pollution, since it washes off and carries away the pollutants from our roofs, lawn, gardens, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, streets, and freeways. These pollutants includes lawn, garden, and pet wastes, trash and litter, paint, soap and grime from washed cars, oil and leaking automotive fluids, tire and brake pad dust, urban construction, maintenance, and many other aspects of modern society.

 

 

Some current best practices for urban storm water management (STORMWATER AUTHORITY OF CHESTER PARTNERSHIP)

Prepared by the Task Committee of the Urban Water Resources Research Council of ASCE. Copublished by ASCE and the Water Environment Federation. Design and Construction of Urban Stormwater Management Systems presents a comprehensive examination of the issues involved in engineering urban stormwater systems. This Manual—which updates relevant portions of Design and Construction of Sanitary and Storm Sewers, MOP 37—reflects the many changes taking place in the field, such as the use of microcomputers and the need to control the quality of runoff as well as the quantity. Chapters are prepared by authors with experience and expertise in the particular subject area. The Manual aids the practicing engineer by presenting a brief summary of currently accepted procedures relating to the following areas: financial services; regulations; surveys and investigations; design concepts and master planning; hydrology and water quality; storm drainage hydraulics; and computer modeling.

 

Here are some key practices:

1. Low Impact Development (LID) and Green Infrastructure:

   • Implement LID techniques like permeable pavements, green roofs, rain gardens, and vegetated swales to mimic natural hydrological processes and reduce stormwater runoff.

2. Stormwater Detention and Retention:

   • Design and construct detention basins, retention ponds, and underground storage systems to temporarily store and slowly release stormwater, preventing flooding downstream.

3. Water Quality Treatment:

   • Install water quality treatment devices such as sediment basins, oil and grease separators, and biofiltration systems to remove pollutants from stormwater before it enters receiving waters.

4. Erosion and Sediment Control:

   • Implement erosion control measures, including silt fences, sediment basins, and erosion control blankets, to prevent soil erosion during construction activities.

5. Natural Drainage Systems:

   • Promote natural drainage systems, such as swales and wetlands, to manage stormwater and improve water quality while enhancing the urban environment.

6. Smart Planning and Zoning Regulations:

   • Develop and enforce zoning regulations that encourage low-impact development and green infrastructure practices in new developments and redevelopment projects.

7. Monitoring and Maintenance:

   • Regularly inspect and maintain stormwater management infrastructure to ensure proper functioning and longevity.

8. Public Education and Outreach:

   • Conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness among residents, businesses, and local communities about the importance of stormwater management and pollution prevention.

9. Water Quality Monitoring:

   • Establish monitoring programs to track water quality in urban water bodies, enabling early detection of issues and adaptive management.

10. Integrated Planning:

    • Integrate stormwater management into broader urban planning efforts, considering factors like land use, transportation, and community goals.

11. Climate Resilience:

    • Factor in climate change projections when designing stormwater management systems to account for increased precipitation and more frequent extreme weather events.

12. Community Engagement:

    • Involve the community in decision-making processes related to stormwater management, seeking input and collaboration to develop solutions that meet local needs and preferences.

13. Regulatory Compliance:

    • Stay up-to-date with federal, state, and local regulations related to stormwater management to ensure compliance with all applicable requirements.

14. Research and Innovation:

    • Support and participate in research efforts to develop and test innovative stormwater management technologies and practices.

15. Sustainable Funding:

    • Identify and secure sustainable funding sources for stormwater management programs, ensuring long-term effectiveness.

Some effective designs internationally

The International Stormwater Best Management Practices Database (BMPDB) is a repository of BMP field studies and related web tools, performance summaries, and monitoring guidance.  Initiated over 25 years ago, the original focus was urban stormwater BMPs (stormwater control measures). Through the support of long-term partners, the project has expanded to develop additional resources related to both urban and agricultural runoff, treatment and management. 

Effective urban runoff and stormwater management is crucial for mitigating water pollution, flooding, and ensuring sustainable urban development. Several cities around the world have implemented innovative and successful stormwater management practices. Here are some international examples:

1. Copenhagen, Denmark: Copenhagen is often cited as a model for sustainable urban planning. The city has implemented a "Cloudburst Management Plan" that includes green roofs, permeable pavements, and extensive green infrastructure. They have also created water plazas and parks that can temporarily store and manage stormwater during heavy rains.

2. Portland, Oregon, USA: Portland is known for its innovative stormwater management programs. The city has embraced green infrastructure, including bioswales, permeable pavement, and ecoroofs (green roofs) to absorb and filter stormwater. Their "Grey to Green" initiative promotes these sustainable practices.

3. Singapore: Singapore is a pioneer in urban stormwater management due to its limited land area and frequent heavy rainfall. They've developed an integrated approach that includes extensive underground detention tanks, rain gardens, and rooftop gardens to capture and store rainwater for reuse while preventing flooding.

4. Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne has adopted a "Water Sensitive Urban Design" approach that combines stormwater management with urban planning. Their Water Sensitive Urban Design Guidelines encourage developers to incorporate water-sensitive features like wetlands, rain gardens, and swales into new developments.

5. Tokyo, Japan: Tokyo's Metropolitan Government has invested in extensive underground stormwater storage tanks to prevent flooding during typhoons and heavy rain events. These tanks can store millions of gallons of water and release it slowly, reducing the risk of floods.

6. Rotterdam, Netherlands: Rotterdam is renowned for its innovative water management strategies, especially considering its vulnerability to sea-level rise. The city has developed a comprehensive plan called "Water Sensitive Rotterdam" that includes floating urban developments, water plazas, and water squares that can temporarily store stormwater.

7. Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver has implemented various green infrastructure projects, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavement, to manage stormwater. The city's Rain City Strategy promotes these initiatives to reduce the impact of stormwater runoff on local water bodies.

8. Sydney, Australia: Sydney has a Stormwater Management Service Charge that funds various stormwater management projects. These include constructed wetlands, stormwater harvesting, and biofiltration systems to treat stormwater before it enters water bodies.

9. Berlin, Germany: Berlin has integrated stormwater management into its urban planning through sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS). These systems include green roofs, retention basins, and vegetated swales to manage stormwater while enhancing urban green spaces.

10. Curitiba, Brazil: Curitiba is known for its innovative stormwater management techniques, such as the use of canals, parks, and lakes to collect and store rainwater. These features not only manage stormwater but also enhance the city's green spaces and biodiversity.

These cities demonstrate the importance of adopting holistic and sustainable stormwater management strategies that not only address flooding and pollution but also contribute to the overall livability and resilience of urban areas. Each city's approach is adapted to its unique geographical, climatic, and urban planning challenges, providing valuable lessons for others looking to improve their stormwater management systems.

 StormWater Management is not new

 

In this video, Anthony Fasano, PE, talks about Antoni Gaudí's remarkable stormwater management techniques showcased in the breathtaking Park Güell, and how it continues to inspire and relate to modern civil engineering practices.

Park Güell is a famous public park in Barcelona, Spain, designed by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. While Gaudí's primary focus for the park was its architectural and artistic aspects, his innovative approach to urban planning and sustainable design can be observed in various elements of the park, including its stormwater management system. Here's how Gaudí incorporated sustainable urban planning principles into Park Güell:

1. Integration with Nature: Gaudí believed in harmonizing architecture with nature. The park's design incorporates natural rock formations, native vegetation, and organic shapes. This integration with nature helps manage stormwater naturally, as rainwater is absorbed by the soil and vegetation rather than running off impermeable surfaces.

2. Terrace Design: The park features a series of terraces with gently sloping paths, plazas, and seating areas. These terraces help control stormwater by allowing rain to infiltrate the soil gradually, reducing erosion and the risk of flooding.

3. Drainage Channels: Gaudí designed intricate and decorative drainage channels in the form of mosaic-covered sculptures and serpentine benches. These channels serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, directing rainwater away from high-traffic areas and into the soil.

4. Retaining Walls: Park Güell includes colorful, mosaic-covered retaining walls that not only stabilize the hillside but also help manage stormwater by preventing soil erosion and providing additional opportunities for rainwater infiltration.

5. Cisterns: Gaudí designed a large underground cistern beneath the main square to collect rainwater. This cistern was originally intended for irrigation and as a water source during dry periods. While it primarily serves a functional purpose, its design and location within the park add to the overall aesthetic.

6. Sustainable Materials: Gaudí used locally sourced and sustainable materials in the construction of Park Güell, which is a fundamental aspect of sustainable urban planning. These materials are less likely to contribute to runoff pollution or other environmental issues.

While Gaudí's main focus at Park Güell was not primarily on stormwater management, his innovative and eco-conscious design principles align with modern sustainable urban planning practices. The park showcases the importance of incorporating nature, aesthetics, and functionality into urban spaces, and it continues to serve as a source of inspiration for architects and urban planners interested in sustainable design.

California's Challenges

California faces significant challenges related to urban runoff and stormwater management due to its diverse geography, climate, and population density. The state has adopted various strategies and regulations to address these challenges, with a focus on water quality protection, flood control, and sustainable urban development. It does not seem that California or her Cities are following best practices as listed above. Here are some key aspects of California's urban runoff and stormwater management:

1. Regulations and Permits:

   • The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires thorough environmental impact assessments for new developments and infrastructure projects, including those related to stormwater management.
   • The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program, administered by the State Water Resources Control Board, regulates stormwater discharges from municipalities, construction sites, and industrial facilities.

2. Municipal Stormwater Programs:

   • Many cities and counties in California have developed Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits and programs to manage stormwater runoff. These programs often include public education, monitoring, and Best Management Practices (BMPs) implementation to reduce pollutants in stormwater.

3. Low Impact Development (LID):

   • California promotes LID techniques such as permeable pavement, green roofs, and bioswales to reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality. These practices help to mimic natural hydrological processes in urban areas.

4. Flood Control and Infrastructure:

   • California's complex network of levees, dams, and flood control channels helps manage stormwater during heavy rainfall events, reducing the risk of flooding in urban areas.

5. Urban Planning and Land Use:

   • Urban planning and land use regulations play a significant role in stormwater management. Smart growth and sustainable development principles help reduce impervious surfaces and encourage green infrastructure.

6. Education and Outreach:

   • Public education and outreach campaigns aim to inform residents, businesses, and community organizations about the importance of responsible stormwater management. This includes actions like not dumping pollutants into storm drains.

7. Water Quality Protection:

   • Efforts to protect water quality focus on reducing pollutants such as sediment, heavy metals, nutrients, and toxins in stormwater runoff. Filtration systems, detention basins, and wetland restoration projects are among the tools used for this purpose.

8. Climate Change Considerations:

   • California is increasingly factoring climate change into its stormwater management plans, as changing weather patterns can lead to more intense storms and increased runoff.

9. Research and Innovation:

   • Research institutions, government agencies, and private organizations in California are continually exploring innovative technologies and practices for stormwater management to improve efficiency and sustainability.

10. Funding and Financing:

    • Funding for stormwater management often comes from a combination of sources, including federal grants, state funds, local fees, and bonds. Finding sustainable financing mechanisms is crucial for maintaining and improving stormwater infrastructure.

California's approach to urban runoff and stormwater management is multifaceted, emphasizing collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and the private sector to address the challenges posed by urbanization, water quality, and climate change. This holistic approach aims to protect both the environment and public health while ensuring long-term sustainability.

 

 

 

The City of San Diego maintains a network of pipes and drains, part of our storm water system. It carries rain water out to our creeks, bays and the ocean. Maintaining this storm water system is crucial to protecting our water quality. To learn more, visit www.ThinkBlue.org.

The City of San Diego Stormwater Division is responsible for managing stormwater runoff within the city to protect water quality and prevent pollution of local water bodies. Stormwater runoff occurs when rainwater flows over roads, parking lots, and other surfaces, picking up pollutants such as oil, chemicals, and trash before entering storm drains and ultimately flowing into rivers, streams, and the ocean.

The Stormwater Division typically focuses on the following key responsibilities:

1. Water Quality Management: They work to prevent pollutants from entering water bodies by implementing and enforcing regulations related to stormwater management. This includes controlling and reducing the discharge of contaminants into stormwater systems.

2. Public Education and Outreach: The division conducts educational programs and outreach efforts to inform the public about the importance of keeping storm drains free of debris and pollutants and how individuals can contribute to improving water quality.

3. Stormwater Infrastructure Maintenance: Maintaining and cleaning stormwater infrastructure such as storm drains, catch basins, and sediment basins is essential to prevent blockages and ensure proper water flow during storms.

4. Regulatory Compliance: The division is responsible for ensuring that businesses and construction projects comply with stormwater regulations and obtain necessary permits to minimize their environmental impact.

5. Monitoring and Testing: Regular monitoring and water quality testing are conducted to assess the health of local water bodies and identify areas of concern. This data helps guide stormwater management efforts.

6. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs): The division often requires businesses, construction sites, and other entities to develop and implement SWPPPs to prevent stormwater pollution. These plans outline specific measures to be taken to control and treat stormwater runoff.

7. Green Infrastructure: Implementing green infrastructure practices such as permeable pavements, rain gardens, and vegetated swales can help reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality. The Stormwater Division may promote and support such projects.

The specific activities and programs of the City of San Diego Stormwater Division may evolve over time, and for the most up-to-date information and details on their initiatives, it's advisable to visit the official website of the City of San Diego or contact the division directly. Additionally, regulations and practices related to stormwater management can vary from city to city and are subject to change based on local ordinances and environmental considerations. Their reports are available here. None of their reports seem to address applying stormwater management assets in the sense of restoring ground water.

 

 

The San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) is responsible for water management in the San Diego region. They develop and implement various plans and programs to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for the area, including the Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP).

The Urban Water Management Plan is a key document that outlines the strategies and actions taken by SDCWA to manage water resources within its service area. The plan typically covers a planning horizon of 20 years and is updated every five years to address the region's changing water needs and conditions. While I can provide you with a general overview of what might be included in such a plan, please note that the specific details and content of the plan may change over time.

Key components of the Urban Water Management Plan for the San Diego County Water Authority might include:

1. Water Supply Portfolio: An overview of the sources of water supply, including imported water from the Colorado River and Northern California, local water resources, and desalinated water. This section may also include information about the availability and reliability of these sources.

2. Demand Projections: Projections for future water demand within the service area based on factors such as population growth, economic development, and water-use efficiency measures.

3. Water Use Efficiency: Strategies and programs aimed at promoting water conservation and efficiency among customers and within the water agency's operations. This may include incentives, rebates, and educational efforts.

4. Drought Preparedness and Response: Plans for managing water supply during drought conditions, including measures to reduce demand, increase supply, and manage available water resources efficiently.

5. Environmental Stewardship: Information on efforts to protect and enhance the region's natural ecosystems and water quality through responsible water management practices.

6. Infrastructure and Capital Projects: An overview of planned infrastructure projects, such as water treatment plants, pipelines, and storage facilities, that are necessary to ensure a reliable water supply.

7. Financial Projections: Financial planning and rate-setting strategies to fund the agency's operations and capital projects while maintaining affordability for customers.

8. Climate Change Adaptation: Strategies to address the potential impacts of climate change on water supply and demand in the region, such as changing precipitation patterns and rising temperatures.

9. Legislative and Regulatory Compliance: An assessment of how the plan aligns with state and federal laws and regulations related to water management.

10. Public Outreach and Engagement: Information on efforts to involve the public, stakeholders, and other agencies in the development and implementation of the plan.

It's important to note that the specific details and priorities outlined in the Urban Water Management Plan may change over time as new data becomes available, as the region's needs evolve, and as policies and regulations are updated.

For the most up-to-date and detailed information on the San Diego County Water Authority's Urban Water Management Plan, I recommend visiting the official SDCWA website or contacting the authority directly. They should be able to provide you with the latest version of the plan and any additional information you may need.

urban planning storm water management at DuckDuckGo

Urban planning for stormwater management is a critical aspect of sustainable city development. It involves designing and implementing systems and strategies to effectively manage rainwater and stormwater within urban areas to minimize flooding, erosion, water pollution, and other related issues. Here are key considerations and strategies for urban planning in stormwater management:

1. Green Infrastructure: Incorporate green infrastructure elements such as permeable pavements, green roofs, rain gardens, and bioswales into urban design. These features help absorb and filter stormwater, reducing the burden on traditional drainage systems.

2. Detention and Retention Basins: Design and construct detention and retention basins to temporarily store excess stormwater. These basins can release water at a controlled rate to prevent downstream flooding.

3. Stormwater Drainage Systems: Plan and maintain efficient stormwater drainage systems, including storm sewers, culverts, and ditches. These systems should be designed to handle expected rainfall intensity and volume.

4. Floodplain Management: Identify and protect floodplain areas, limiting development in flood-prone regions and ensuring that existing structures in these areas are flood-resistant.

5. Erosion Control: Implement erosion control measures such as stabilizing slopes, using erosion-resistant materials, and planting vegetation to prevent soil erosion and sediment runoff into water bodies.

6. Water Quality Management: Install water quality treatment systems to remove pollutants from stormwater before it enters water bodies. This includes using sediment basins, oil-water separators, and vegetated filter strips.

7. Public Education: Raise awareness among residents and businesses about the importance of responsible stormwater management. Encourage practices such as proper disposal of litter and chemicals to reduce pollution.

8. Regulatory Framework: Establish and enforce stormwater management regulations and standards for new development projects. Require developers to implement stormwater best management practices (BMPs).

9. Climate Resilience: Consider the potential impacts of climate change, including increased rainfall and more intense storms, in stormwater management plans. Design systems that can handle changing weather patterns.

10. Integrated Planning: Integrate stormwater management into broader urban planning efforts. Coordinate with transportation planning, land use planning, and environmental conservation initiatives to create holistic, sustainable urban environments.

11. Community Engagement: Involve the local community in the planning and decision-making process. Seek their input on stormwater management strategies and engage them in maintenance efforts.

12. Monitoring and Maintenance: Establish a system for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of stormwater infrastructure. Regularly inspect and clean stormwater facilities to ensure they function as intended.

13. Multi-Benefit Approach: Look for opportunities to achieve multiple benefits through stormwater management. For example, green infrastructure projects can also enhance urban aesthetics, provide habitat for wildlife, and improve air quality.

14. Funding Mechanisms: Explore various funding sources for stormwater management projects, including grants, stormwater fees, and public-private partnerships.

Effective urban planning for stormwater management can help cities mitigate the impacts of urbanization on local waterways, improve water quality, enhance urban resilience to climate change, and create more livable and sustainable communities. It requires a multi-disciplinary approach and collaboration among various stakeholders, including city governments, developers, environmental agencies, and the community.

Climate change impacts, ageing infrastructure and the increasing imperviousness of cities all raise enormous challenges to and call for new ways of planning for sustainable urban stormwater management. Especially, closer collaboration among a diverse set of actors involved has been pointed to as critical to enable the development of holistic and flexible approaches. 

Bohman A, Glaas E, Karlson M. Integrating Sustainable Stormwater Management in Urban Planning: Ways Forward towards Institutional Change and Collaborative Action. Water. 2020; 12(1):203. https://doi.org/10.3390/w12010203  

EPA's Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) is used throughout the world for planning, analysis, and design related to stormwater runoff, combined and sanitary sewers, and other drainage systems. SWMM is a Windows-based desktop program. It is open source public software and is free for use worldwide. SWMM 5 was produced in a joint development effort with CDM Smith Inc., a global consulting, engineering, construction, and operations firm.