Low Impact Development (LID) Planning & Support in Utah

Modern approaches to stormwater management have yielded several positive templates, and one of the best examples here is known as low impact development, or LID. What is LID, and how does it serve as a sustainable, forward-thinking way to approach SWPPP and stormwater management?

At Cearley SWPPP, we're proud to offer the very best stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) services available around Utah, including everything from site planning and inspections to specific BMPs like erosion control services and more. Here's a primer on what LID is, some examples of LID products, and the various ways these solutions benefit developers, municipalities and other entities involved in stormwater management.

What is Low Impact Development?

For those just learning about low impact development for the first time, the term refers to an innovative approach to stormwater management. Instead of using traditional methods of collecting and conveying stormwater, LID involves designing and building sites in a way that mimics natural processes to manage runoff on-site.

This can include a few specific elements:

Green roofs: Some of the most common low impact development techniques involve installing green roofs, which are essentially rooftop gardens. These absorb rainfall and filter out pollutants before they can enter the stormwater system.
Permeable pavement: Instead of using traditional concrete or asphalt, permeable pavement allows water to seep through small holes or cracks in the surface. This allows for natural filtration and reduces runoff.
Rain gardens: These are shallow depressions planted with native vegetation that collect and filter stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces like roofs and driveways.
Bioretention systems: Similar to rain gardens, bioretention systems use plants, soil, and other materials to filter stormwater as it flows through them.

By incorporating these elements into our urban landscapes, we can help mitigate the negative effects of urbanization on our water resources.

Benefits of Incorporating LID Themes Into Site Design

At Cearley SWPPP, we regularly work with clients to help incorporate LID concepts into their site design to aid with SWPPP needs. This process carries several benefits, including:

Minimizing runoff: One of the top goals of LID is to reduce and treat stormwater runoff. By using permeable pavement, rain gardens, green roofs, and other techniques, we can help slow down the flow of water and allow it to be absorbed into the ground.
Promoting groundwater recharge: LID practices help to replenish groundwater supplies, which are crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting human activities.
Improving water quality: As stormwater flows through LID features, it is naturally filtered and cleansed by plants, soil, and other materials. This helps remove pollutants before they have a chance to reach our water bodies.
Aligning with local sustainability initiatives: LID practices often align with local sustainability goals and initiatives, making them an ideal choice for communities looking to improve their environmental footprint.
Cost savings: Implementing LID practices can result in cost savings for municipalities and property owners. By reducing the amount of stormwater runoff that needs to be managed by traditional infrastructure, LID practices can lower maintenance costs and decrease the need for expensive drainage systems.
Creating attractive green spaces: LID features such as rain gardens, bioswales, and green roofs can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a community by creating attractive green spaces. These spaces not only provide benefits for stormwater management but also serve as recreational areas and habitats for wildlife.

Cearley SWPPP is Here to Help

At Cearley SWPPP, we recognize that more and more of our clients are looking into LID and other ways of maintaining sustainability for their sites. We are here to help with the planning and implementation of LID features in your projects. Our team of experts can provide guidance on selecting the most suitable LID features for your site, as well as designing and constructing them.