Install vegetated filter strips to reduce flow velocities in stormwater conveyance systems to encourage settling of sediments (for later removal).
Vegetated filter strips are mildly sloped vegetated surfaces that treat runoff from adjacent impervious areas. These BMPs slow runoff velocities and remove pollutants via filtration and infiltration. Vegetated filter strip systems perform well for solids and dissolved constituents removal. Bacteria removal is typically small due to bacteria in the soil. Runoff volume retention depends on the underlying soil. Volume reduction can range from 50 percent to almost all runoff. A potential issue may be hazardous wildlife attraction, which can be minimized by regular mowing to keep the grass short and using grass species that are the least attractive to grass eating species. Other maintenance requirements include removing sediment buildup along the pavement edge.
Practice Information
| Staffing Requirements: | Low (10 – 50 hours per month) |
| Environmental Benefits: | Low environmental benefit |
Airport Characteristics
Categories
Case Studies
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
SEA has installed vegetated filter strips along the airfield in pre-existing grassy areas at 10 locations along runways. These filter strips were extended by installing catch basins at locations further from the edge of the tarmac during the runway retrofit. The distance between the tarmac edge and the catch basin exceeded 100 feet in most cases. The distance meets the Washington Department of Ecology (DOE) design criteria for vegetated filter strips, although the vegetation does not meet DOE requirements.
Related Links
Vegetated Filter Strips: Minnesota Stormwater Manual. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
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