5 Ways to Manage Stormwater Runoff

Recent heavy rain events, including the Montecito Mudslides in January 2018, remind us how important it is to maintain excellent management of stormwater runoff. Manifest Building is dedicated to building safe structures that are ready to handle heavy rain, while our landscaping division, EcoLawn SB, specializes in preparing landscapes and property for stormy weather. Considering how your property will manage water flow in the event of heavy rain is imperative to keep in mind when making changes to your structure or property.

Here are 5 ways you can manage stormwater in your yard:

1. Retaining Walls

Retaining walls can help prevent erosion, specifically on hillsides. When it rains, a retaining wall keeps the soil in place prevents the mud from sliding down the hillside. This helps maintain the structure of the hillside before and after a storm.

2. Dry Creeks

Dry creeks can help with proper drainage with runoff water. They direct and disperse water that would otherwise cause puddling or flooding. The water can be directed toward plants or street gutters.

3. Property Drainage

Having efficient property drainage can help your home and surrounding landscape stand up to rainy weather and minimize risk for water damage to structures. There are multiple ways to make a property and landscape ready for stormwater runoff. Here are a couple examples:

  • – Use gutters to move water away from the house
  • – Ensure that hardscape surfaces are graded and sloped away from any structures to avoid water intrusion

4. Planting

Vegetation can help reduce erosion on hillsides by slowing down the flow of runoff and providing more time for the water to percolate into the ground, while roots prevent soil from sliding away.

5. Permeable Materials

Permeable materials are great for landscapes because they allow for water to percolate into the ground and back into the water table. Driveways, patios, and walkways can be constructed with permeable pavers or gravel.

Our landscaping division, EcoLawn SB, provides free estimates for landscaping construction, erosion control and stormwater management. https://ecolawnsb.com/

5 Ways to Manage Stormwater Runoff blog article by EcoLawn SB in Santa Barbara