Grass Swales
Even if you don’t live on or near a lake, wetland or creek, there are many ways you can protect and improve water quality at home! In urban and suburban areas, the streets are linked to lakes and wetlands through stormwater drainage systems. Water runs off the street rapidly, picks up pollutants and runs into a storm drain, which discharges directly into nearby waters.
Viewer Tip: Vegetated swales can be constructed in residential, commercial or industrial areas to control stormwater runoff. These grass-covered areas allow filtering of pollutants, promote infiltration of water into the soil and reduce the speed of stormwater runoff. Swales can be aesthetically pleasing and have low maintenance requirements.
Learn more about vegetated swales and other storm water management practices at www.epa.gov/oaintrnt/stormwater/best_practices.htm.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
(Sources: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Stormwater Management Best Practices.” http://www.epa.gov/oaintrnt/stormwater/best_practices.htm#grassedswales; Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, Environmental Planning Section Planning Commission Montgomery County)
