LID Features Help Manage Runoff
Urban areas without stormwater management controls are prone to flooding during heavy rainfall. Stormwater systems can become overwhelmed as high volumes of rainwater run off hard surfaces and into these systems. Natural landscapes provide areas where rainwater can be stored, so that it will gradually enter stormwater systems or return to waterways.
Many urban residents have concerns about flooding and the damage that significant rain events can bring to their property. Last year, severe flooding damaged homes, businesses and public land in the Credit River Watershed. With this in mind, here are examples of low-impact development (LID) features to build in your yard that can help to slow down rainwater and reduce the strain on public stormwater systems.
- Rain garden: A planted, shallow depression that collects rainwater from a downspout or rain barrel overflow. Rainwater that falls into a rain garden slowly soaks into the soil, preventing it from entering the stormwater system. These are great for a yard where the depression can be at least three metres from the foundation of your home.
- Soakaway: A gravel-filled pit or trench designed to direct rainwater away from your home. These can be standalone, or move water from a downspout, rain barrel overflow or rain garden. These are a great option for smaller yards or narrow strips of land between hard surfaces.
- Downspout and weeping tile disconnect: Disconnecting downspouts or weeping tiles that drain directly into the stormwater system can keep heavy rain from overwhelming the system. The new outflow can be connected to a rain barrel, soakaway or rain garden. Contact your local municipality to see if your property is still connected.
Tools For Keeping Rainwater Outside
Rain-ready landscaping works best for frequent or typical rainfall events but are not designed for flood protection. Here’s how you can help to keep water outside your home:
- Sump Pump: A mechanical device used to remove water from an indoor low-lying area, like a basement and pump it to the surface or drainage system.
- Backwater Valve: A mechanical device that allows water to flow from your home during normal use. If it detects water backing up into your home from the sewer, it automatically closes to help protect your basement from flooding.
Like any other appliances in your home, sump pumps and backwater valves need to be regularly maintained to ensure they work properly.
Learn More
- Some municipalities have programs to help residents implement LID projects. Check your local municipal website or call 311 to learn more about what is available. Technical resources for various LID projects are available online, such as Sustainable Technologies.
- Check out A Residential Guide to Flood Protection to understand more about being prepared for flooding and what to do following a flood.
- If you are unsure if you are in a floodplain, look up your address on CVC’s floodplain map.