What is the primary goal of stormwater management?

The primary goal of stormwater management is to reduce the impact of increased runoff from new development. As urban areas expand and develop, impervious surfaces such as roads and buildings replace natural landscapes. This change leads to an increase in the volume and speed of stormwater runoff, which can cause flooding, erosion, and water quality issues in nearby water bodies.

Effective stormwater management practices aim to mitigate these negative effects by implementing strategies that enhance water infiltration, reduce runoff, and manage the quantity and quality of stormwater before it reaches streams, rivers, and oceans. This includes techniques such as retention ponds, green roofs, permeable pavements, and other best management practices that help to mimic natural hydrology. By controlling stormwater runoff, communities can protect local ecosystems, improve water quality, and reduce the potential for flood risks.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary objective of stormwater management. Increasing built environments can exacerbate runoff issues, enhancing aesthetic appeal is a secondary benefit rather than the main goal, and eliminating all forms of runoff is impractical and unrealistic within urban planning.