Low Impact Development

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Low Impact Development (LID) is a land planning and design approach for managing stormwater runoff as close to its source as possible.  LID principles complement, and sometimes replace, traditional stormwater management systems, which historically emphasized quickly moving stormwater off-site with curbs, pipes, and culverts. Stormwater runoff is the primary source of pollution into the Guadalupe River and waterbodies in general.  LID practices can manage stormwater runoff to improve the water quality of adjacent waterways.  It emphasizes conservation and use of on-site natural features to retain stormwater in order to lessen runoff and to protect water quality. 

Examples of LID practices include:

  • Bioretention

  • Rainwater catchment systems and cisterns 

  • Rain gardens

  • Bio swales

  • Infiltration/filter strips

  • Pervious pavement

  • Soil amendments

Additional Resources:

Example Projects:

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