Changing storm characteristics present challenges for developed areas, where criteria used to size existing stormwater infrastructure may no longer be reflective of the current climate. Conventional approaches to overburdened stormwater infrastructure often involve adding or replacing pipe infrastructure; however, these efforts can be disruptive and expensive with limitations on scalability. Additionally, with substantial removal, disposal, and new material installation, these efforts can lack many characteristics of a sustainable infrastructure project. Green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) can provide multiple benefits and support sustainability efforts; however, these controls are often intended to manage small, frequent storm events. An analysis of observed recent storm characteristics in relation to NOAA Atlas 14 demonstrates that many locations in the United States are realizing an above average frequency of storm events associated with nuisance flooding issues and an incremental increase in storm depths and intensities. A hydrologic analysis of multiple bioretention design configurations reveals that while basic GSI controls have limited impact on the storms used to design stormwater conveyance infrastructure, basic design modifications can mitigate the incremental increases in storm size associated with climate change and provide broader peak flow reduction benefits. Results suggest GSI can play a valuable role in conjunction with existing grey infrastructure to mitigate the incremental increases in storm depths and intensities associated with climate change while supporting other sustainability objectives. This presentation will discuss the analyses described herein and provide examples of where green stormwater infrastructure is and is not a reasonable option to assist in providing climate resiliency.

Track 2: Use of Green Stormwater Infrastructure to Sustainably Address Changing Storms

To lean into ASCE’s sustainability efforts to mitigate environmental effects and use resources wisely, ASCE’s International Conferences on Sustainable Infrastructure (ICSI) 2021 will be held as a virtual event. The dates of ICSI 2021 will be December 6-10th. We hope you will join us in this multi-day, multi-faceted program!

Powered by the ICSI Steering Committee based in Houston, the 2021 event will bring together leaders to discuss leveraging sustainable infrastructure for resilient communities.  The program will offer content from across the globe, but have several highlights on sustainability initiatives in Houston, Texas. We hope you will join us virtually for plenary sessions, technical discussions, along with opportunities for Q&A and networking, connecting with virtual exhibitors, and to earn professional development hours.  

We look forward to ‘seeing you’ at ICSI 2021!"