Install an on-airport stormwater collection and rain harvesting system to treat runoff prior to reuse or discharge.
Rainwater harvesting system BMPs collect rainwater for reuse, decreasing stormwater volume and providing an irrigation water supply. These BMPs typically do not provide treatment. Rainwater harvest BMPs typically consist of a collection system draining to a cistern or underground detention facility where water is stored before use. Pollutant removal is minimal, as rainwater does not have high levels of pollutants. Rainwater harvesting systems have high volume reduction and reuse capacities. Volume is lost via evapotranspiration when harvested water is used for irrigation or reuse within buildings for toilet flushing, cooling water, and other uses. The harvesting system must not be accessible or serve as a water source to hazardous wildlife. In many areas, collection of rainwater may be prohibited by water rights laws. Local plumbing codes may also prohibit reuse or require pretreatment of harvested water. Maintenance requirements include: periodically monitoring to ensure that captured rainwater does not become anaerobic; cleaning gutters and downspouts; cleaning reservoir annually; and inspecting and maintaining to ensure system does not overflow creating water pools.
Practice Information
| Staffing Requirements: | Low (10 – 50 hours per month) |
| Environmental Benefits: | Low environmental benefit |
Airport Characteristics
Categories
Case Studies
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA)
ABIA has installed rainwater harvesting systems at the taxi cab waiting area. This system is a relatively new measure that was installed when the original taxi waiting area was converted to a cell phone lot. It appears that the major driver for this installation was to achieve a LEED rating for the facility.
Related Links
Rainwater Harvesting: System Planning Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
EPA Rainwater Harvesting Studies.
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