John McMaine, Oklahoma State University, formerly University of Kentucky

Track: Research Briefs

Abstract:

Impervious surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, and roofs increase the volume of runoff generated in a watershed.  Traditional stormwater management techniques emphasize conveyance of runoff away from impervious surfaces in order to reduce flooding.  Rain gardens are becoming popular as a different means to manage stormwater in such a way that runoff is captured and infiltrated onsite rather than conveyed offsite.  A stormwater management system consisting of a rainwater harvest system, rain garden, and infiltration chamber was built at the Coca-Cola Refreshments USA, Inc. distribution center in Lexington, Kentucky during the fall of 2011.  Precipitation, inflow, and water level were measured from May, 2012 to April, 2013 to evaluate the hydrologic performance of the rain garden.  The rain garden had a high infiltrative capability and was able to capture and infiltrate 100% of the runoff generated during the study period.  The results of the study were used to formulate recommendations for rain garden design and construction in central Kentucky.