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Implementing Low Impact Development . to achieve water quality benefits in Contra Costa County. Dan Cloak, P.E. 18 September 2007. Low Impact Development. Design the site to mimic natural drainage. Disperse runoff to landscape where possible.
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Implementing Low Impact Development to achieve water quality benefitsin Contra Costa County Dan Cloak, P.E.18 September 2007
Low Impact Development • Design the site to mimic natural drainage. • Disperse runoff to landscape where possible. • Use Integrated Management Practices distributed around the site.
Detain and treat runoff Typically fit into setbacks and landscaped areas Accommodate diverse plant palettes Low-maintenance Don’t breed mosquitoes Can be attractive Soil surface must be 6-12" lower than surrounding pavement Require 3-4 feet of vertical “head” Can affect decisions about placement of buildings, roadways, and parking Integrated Management Practices Advantages Challenges
Contra Costa’s Path to Low Impact Development • Stormwater NPDES permit • Early outreach to land development community • Staff work groups developed LID approach to compliance • Model ordinance • Guidebook • Training for designers & reviewers • Collaborative problem-solving
LID concept for urban areas 4% of tributary impervious area Turf or planting Planting medium Gravel or drain rock Perforated pipe
9-acre, mixed use • Clay soils • Flat grades • Max. use • Storm drains • Setbacks Multi-family Residential Retail Restaurant Retail nursery
Swale “C-2” • 6' to 10' width fits into setback • Underdrain/ overflow to storm drain below
Area “C-2” • Follow roof peaks and grade breaks • Area size determined by site layout • Use valley gutters instead of catch basins 25,825 x 0.04 = 1,033 square feet 1,033 ÷ 8 = 129 feet of swale
Difficulties Implementing LID • Developers plan buildings, streets, parking, and drainage before considering treatment requirements • Proprietary devices = quick fix • Integration with landscaping • Deficiencies in construction
What’s worked for Contra Costa • State mandate • Local compliance strategy • Collaboration and consensus • Expertise and ownership • Municipal Staff Work Groups • Mutual support at staff level • Continuous improvement of design guidance
Empowering the reviewer Support fromsuperiors Support from peers Mandate Ordinance DesignGuidance
More info • Google “Contra Costa Stormwater” • Other places implementing LID • San Diego County municipalities • Riverside County municipalities • San Bernardino County • Monterey County • Sacramento County