Stormwater systems are tools that manage the runoff from rainfall. These systems used to only be natural, but when our world started to become more advanced with non-pervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and things that cover the ground, it became rarer to find a natural system.

So what do you do when natural systems are rare resulting in flooding, etc.?You create your own man made system to fix those problems. There are a few different systems: stormwater retention basins, stormwater swales, dry detentions, and wet detentions.

It’s important for HOA’s and pond owners to know the differences between systems because different systems get damaged in a variety of ways.

Stormwater retention basin systems are closed systems that are constructed so that storm water doesn’t reach natural bodies like lakes or reservoirs. This system can be temporary or permanent.

If it is a temporary basin, it will hold runoff water for about 72 hours. They can also be man-made or natural. Erosion from water is a concern for this system.

Stormwater swales can also be man-made or natural. Typically swales are dry and hold water during and immediately after a storm. This system is open, allowing the water to run into other bodies of water. Stormwater Swales are also affected by erosion.

Dry detentions, also known as Detention ponds, are (you guessed it) dry! They temporarily hold storm water and then release it slowly. Dry detentions can contain vegetation and will often need to be watered until the plants become established.

There are pipes in dry detentions that need to be inspected to make sure they don’t get broken. Erosion is also a concern for this system.

Wet detentions, also known as Retention ponds, are the most distinguishable. This system holds water all the time. There is drainage pipe that is in the pond that will slowly drain water to prevent flooding.

A significant concern for this system is clogged drains. Sediment and debris can get in there pretty easily and can be very destructive making an inspection and dredging necessary.

It’s essential for pond owners and HOA’s in Charlotte, NC to know which stormwater system they have and the solution to keeping their systems and communities safe.

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