The bioretention systems including raingarden, bioswale, planter and green roof probably are the most popular stormwater control measures (SCMs) used in stormwater management. Although the system has continuously shown great performance in runoff volume and peak reduction, less investigation has been directed toward modelling the detailed hydrologic processes in the system. There are many models capable of modelling the lumped processes, but few has been validated by the field data. In this study a 3D bioretention model was built based on the principles of water movement in the bioretention system. To validate the model’s effectiveness, a pair of bioretention cells include ponding layer, growing media layer, gravel layer and underdrain and outflow layer was constructed in the test field. A carefully designed monitoring system was built to support the modelling efforts. The preliminary results show that the flow movement in the system can be modelled quite adequately, but water quality removal mechanisms need more data and time to verify.

Developing a Physically based 3D Bioretention System Model

Created in 1999, the Environmental & Water Resources Institute (EWRI) is the recognized leader within ASCE for the integration of technical expertise and public policy in the planning, design, construction, and operation of environmentally sound and sustainable infrastructure impacting air, land and water resources.

[Paper Proceedings](https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483466)