Low Impact Development (LID)

Definition

Low Impact Development (LID) is a sustainable land-use management strategy that aims to mimic natural hydrological processes to manage stormwater runoff and reduce environmental impacts. By using techniques like green roofs, permeable pavements, and rain gardens, LID helps to improve water quality, enhance groundwater recharge, and protect ecosystems. This approach integrates water management with urban planning to create resilient communities that are better equipped to handle rainfall and flooding events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. LID techniques help reduce the volume of stormwater runoff by allowing rainwater to infiltrate into the ground, which is beneficial for groundwater replenishment.
2. Incorporating LID practices can lead to improved water quality by filtering pollutants through vegetation and soil before they reach waterways.
3. LID can be cost-effective in the long run as it reduces the need for expensive traditional stormwater infrastructure like large retention basins.
4. Adopting LID principles can also enhance urban aesthetics by incorporating green spaces into developments, which improves overall quality of life.
5. LID practices are adaptable and can be applied at various scales, from individual properties to entire neighborhoods or commercial developments.

Review Questions

• How do Low Impact Development strategies enhance the management of stormwater runoff compared to traditional methods?
  • Low Impact Development strategies enhance stormwater runoff management by mimicking natural hydrological processes, which allows for better infiltration and filtration of rainwater. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on large detention basins to collect runoff, LID incorporates features like permeable surfaces and green roofs that promote immediate absorption and evaporation. This shift not only reduces the volume of runoff but also improves water quality by filtering pollutants before they reach streams or rivers.
• Discuss the economic benefits of implementing Low Impact Development practices in urban planning.
  • Implementing Low Impact Development practices can lead to significant economic benefits in urban planning by lowering costs associated with stormwater infrastructure maintenance and construction. LID systems often require less extensive piping and detention basins, reducing initial investment and long-term operational costs. Furthermore, enhanced green spaces can increase property values, attract tourism, and promote local business growth, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant economy.
• Evaluate the role of Low Impact Development in addressing climate change impacts on urban areas.
  • Low Impact Development plays a crucial role in addressing climate change impacts on urban areas by improving resilience against extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and flooding. By promoting natural drainage solutions like rain gardens and bioswales, LID can effectively manage increased runoff while simultaneously enhancing biodiversity and restoring ecosystems. Additionally, these practices help mitigate urban heat effects through increased vegetation cover, further contributing to adaptive strategies for climate resilience.

Related terms

Green Infrastructure: A network of natural and semi-natural systems that provide ecosystem services, such as stormwater management, air quality improvement, and biodiversity enhancement.

Stormwater Management: The practice of controlling the quantity and quality of runoff generated from urban surfaces to prevent flooding and protect water resources.

Permeable Pavement: A type of paving material that allows water to infiltrate through its surface, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge.