Developments in LID
Urbanization and associated changes in the movement of stormwater over and through the landscape are some of the greatest and most complex threats to water quality, water supplies, and aquatic habitat in the Puget Sound region. Research, development, effeciency studies, and more reserach are what drive new methods and technologies for managing stormwater, and treating it naturally, prior to return to our waterways.
Read through the articles and links below to learn about recent changes in LID regulations, new research, and guidance materials for use of LID in new and re-construction.
LID Research
Low Impact Development Research Trends and Needs - a presentation by watershed ecologist Curtis Hinman (2 Mb PDF)
LID Requirements in NPDES Permits
Ecology released a proposal in mid-2010 on LID Stormwater Standards that includes the proposed requirements and timelines that will be included in the 2012 Phase I and Phase II NPDES Municipal Permits. To read more about the development process for the LID definitions and standards for low impact development (LID) and the associated advisory groups, see Ecology's web page. Read the comments on the draft proposal submitted to Ecology on the LID Stormwater Standards.
Low Impact Development Technical Guidance Manual
The purpose of the low impact technical guidance manual (5.2 mb) is to provide stormwater managers and site designers with a common understanding of low impact development (LID) goals, objectives, flow reduction credits, and specifications applicable to the Puget Sound region. Continued research and distribution of the current state of knowledge through this document and other forums will facilitate the application of LID tools toward the more effective management of stormwater runoff and protection of our streams, lakes, wetlands, and Puget Sound.
In addition to the guidelines for specific practices, this manual provides research and data related to those practices to help managers and designers make informed decisions when adapting LID applications to their jurisdiction.
Low impact development is a new and evolving management approach; accordingly, this document will evolve and be periodically updated as additional research becomes available and designers gain more practical experience in the region. This is a technical manual and the information provided is targeted for engineers, planners, landscape architects, technical staff for policy makers, and developers. The manual can be found here.