When it comes to site design or site modifications, stormwater design is a critical piece of the project. Stormwater design:

• prevents or reduces flooding at the site protecting property and lives

• helps improve the quality of stormwater that is returned to our natural water sources

• complies with local best management practices (BMPs) to avoid fines or costly repairs

The good news is that efficient stormwater design offers multiple site benefits, not to mention a favorable chance for plan approval for site development. So, what can developers do to maximize their stormwater design and BMPs? Our experts offer some great insights to consider when meeting with your site designers.

Design & Environment

The built environment disrupts the systems created by mother nature to control stormwater. Many local governments have established BMPs to ensure that new developments control stormwater effectively to protect our communities. Developers have several options to incorporate stormwater control to comply with local regulations:

• Low Impact Development (LID) is a design approach that helps protect water resources by using techniques that absorb and filter stormwater
• Incorporate green infrastructure like permeable pavements, bioswales and rain gardens into the site design. Working with a Landscape Architect can provide unique and functional concepts
• Consider advanced stormwater filtration systems to improve storm runoff quality

The quality of stormwater can also have negative effects on the environment. Run off from roadways and parking lots can carry oil and other pollutants into freshwater habitats, causing harm to native plants and animals. We recommend consulting with your site designers to ensure they are compliant with local stormwater quality guidelines.

Operations & Maintenance

It’s very important when working with your site designers and contractors to discuss site operations before, during and after the build is complete. During the build be sure your contractors have properly installed silt fencing and other site controls to keep erosion and run off from causing damage. Failed controls are subject to penalties from local governments.

After the build is complete, and depending on what systems you have in place, we recommend coming up with a stormwater treatment facility (STF) maintenance plan. Having a plan will help site owners and managers avoid any deferred site maintenance and monitor proper functionality of the site’s infrastructure. STF maintenance should include, but not limited to:

• examination of any permeable surfaces at the site
• spotting any erosion or exposed underground infrastructure
• identifying any unusual water puddling
• clearing dead or overgrown vegetation – Warning! Cattails are bad

If you suspect your STFs are not functioning properly, BHC has skilled engineers and landscape architects available to help identify any issues or failures in your system and how to correct them. Regular observation will help prevent costly repairs down the road.

Regulations & Certifications

By law, landowners are required to certify their stormwater systems annually. BHC follows the APWA/MARC BMP Manual 2012 procedures for all stormwater treatment facility (STF) certifications. Our engineers complete this process in three easy steps:

Pre-Inspection

Prior to conducting a site-visit, we will coordinate with the property owner and/or manager to discuss any maintenance concerns they have identified and request their most recent plan drawings. From there, our inspectors will prep the required documentation and begin drafting a site visit plan.

Site Visit

Our inspectors are equipped with the best field technology. BHC utilizes remote data collection technology to capture field data at the STF site. They log data into tablet devices with the ESRI Field Map app. During site visits, our inspectors visually inspect the entire system, capturing images and notes about the current conditions. Our field teams come prepared with site plans, manhole pick and when necessary, a machete for brush clearing to ensure a 100% complete inspection.

Post Inspection

Data is then brought back to the office and exported into ArcGIS Online software. The inspectors use these reports to complete the certification forms and file documents required for submitting STF Certifications. The final report is verified and signed by a licensed engineer. The property owner will receive all documentation along with a list of recommendations and resolutions from BHC.

BHC at Work

When it comes stormwater management, look no further than BHC. Our team is stacked with local experts who have designed some the area’s award-winning projects.

In Overland Park, the Aspiria project is underway. Occidental Management purchased the former 200+ acre Sprint World headquarters Campus and are in the process of transforming the property into a mixed-use development. The master plan for Aspiria included more than 2.7 million SF of new construction, with 600 multifamily units, 375,000 SF of retail and restaurants, a hotel, more than 1.4 million SF of office and a community park with an amphitheater.

BHC completed site layout, grading and utility layout for the entitlement process. Our engineers and surveyors are working together to complete the stormwater management design for the overall campus including utilizing the existing ponds for detention and stormwater quality and facilitated environmental permitting review for existing onsite features.

Maintenance of the existing features will help identify any deferred maintenance, determine any failures that need addressed and how to modify the current design to accommodate the new additions to the development.

If you’re having concerns about your STFs or need a BMP evaluation, no problem. Any time is a good time to contact our team, so let’s talk. Connect with us today.