What is Low Impact Development (LID)?

LID is exactly what it sounds like - development that minimizes its impact on the environment.  By working with the landscape, developers minimize the amount of pollution that leaves the site.  Rain gardens and rain barrels or cisterns are popular forms of LID.  Rain gardens capture and treat stormwater, preventing it from running off the property and into a storm drain.  Rain barrels or cisterns store water, making it available for things like watering plants or washing your vehicle.  Storing water means you don’t have to pay for water.  Plus, rainwater is often nutrient rich so you may not have to buy any fertilizer either!

Does LID Save Money for Developers?

In addition to savings on water and fertilizer, developers see a cost savings of about 10% due to absence of underground storm sewers and a reduced number of gutters and piping. Using rain gardens and grass swales instead of gutters is much more aesthetically pleasing and is considered an amenity in lots of communities! Because LID minimizes disturbance to the land, the cost of grading and soil compaction is reduced as well. 

What Can You Do?

Before you build, consider using LID techniques.  Although LID is relatively new, many developers are beginning to see the benefits.  Do your research to find someone that’s familiar with this type of development.  If you already own a home, consider constructing a rain garden to help filter runoff before it leaves your property.  Stormwater SMART staff is Residential Rain Garden Certified, so give us a call and we’ll design a rain garden for you!  For more information on LID please visit stormwatersmart.org or give us a call. 

LID for your Back Yard

Rain Gardens – A shallow depression planted with native plants collects a few inches of water and allows it to be absorbed into the ground, or by plants instead of flowing directly into nearby streams and lakes. 

Rain Barrels and Cisterns – Store rainwater collected from gutters and roof to use as irrigation or recycle as grey water.

Rooftop Gardens– Gardening on roofs delays and slows stormwater runoff,  provides insulation, and reduces heat emission, while providing habitat for birds and butterflies.

Permeable Pavers– Porous concrete or grids filled with gravel, grass or mulch, act as paving while allowing water to filter down into the soil beneath. 

Soil Amendments – Amend the soil with organic matter and/or sand to increase infiltration.

Reduction and Disconnection – Reduce the number of gutters and disconnect them from underground pipes.  Store the rainwater for later or direct it towards the landscaping and away from the driveway or street.