Vegetative detention basins are designed to capture and detain runoff for short periods of time and do not maintain a permanent pool between storm events. The detention basins reduce peak runoff from entering the existing stormwater infrastructure while improving water quality. These facilities are planted with a mix of native wetland and prairie vegetation that can survive submerged with ponded water for short periods of time. While stormwater is detained in the basin, suspended particles can settle out of the runoff. Vegetative detention basins effectively capture runoff from roadways, parking lots, and larger residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Retention basins provide similar benefits to treat and store stormwater but are designed so that a permanent pool of water is continuously maintained between storm events.
Downloadable PDF: Native Vegetative Fact Sheet