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Published on: May 15, 2017
Urban Stormwater Characterization, Control, and Treatment
Jason R Vogel1, Trisha L Moore
1Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, 218 Ag Hall, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, 74078, USA.
This review synthesizes 2015 research on urban stormwater runoff, highlighting advances in characterizing, controlling, and treating runoff. Key findings show enhanced performance of stormwater control practices through media amendments and better modeling for improved water quality.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Resource Management
- Urban Hydrology
Background:
- Urban stormwater runoff poses significant environmental challenges.
- Effective management requires understanding runoff quality and quantity.
- Existing control and treatment practices need continuous improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize recent advancements in urban stormwater runoff characterization, control, and treatment.
- To identify emerging research themes and knowledge gaps.
- To inform future strategies for stormwater management.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of 181 journal articles published in 2015.
- Thematic organization of studies into quality/quantity characterization, engineered practices, and watershed modeling.
- Synthesis of common research findings and trends.
Main Results:
- Advances in characterizing urban stormwater quality and quantity.
- Evaluations of various engineered stormwater control practices (e.g., bioretention, permeable pavement, green roofs).
- Development in watershed-scale modeling and optimization techniques for stormwater management.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced performance of stormwater practices is achievable through media amendments and innovative outlet structures.
- A deeper mechanistic understanding of hydrologic and water-quality functions is crucial for predictive modeling.
- Continued research is vital for improving stormwater control and treatment at multiple scales.
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