Low Impact Development Principles
Low Impact Development (LID) is an innovative, ecosystem-based approach to land development and stormwater management. The LID philosophy is modeled after nature: manage rainfall at the source.
LID's goal is to mimic a site's natural hydrology by using design techniques that allow water to soak into the ground, filter, store, evaporate, and contain runoff close to its source, resulting in a natural hydrologic landscape and a protected watershed. Techniques are based on the fact that stormwater management should not be seen as stormwater disposal. LID is a versatile approach that can be applied equally well to new development, urban retrofits, and revitalization projects.
Five Basic Principles of Low Impact Development:
- Conserve natural areas
- Minimize development impacts
- Maintain site runoff rate and control small storms
- Use integrated management practices (control volume and pollutant loads)
- Implement pollution prevention, proper maintenance, and public education programs
For More Information:
- Introduction to Low Impact Development - A good basic primer on LID.
- EPA's Low Impact Development Web site- A comprehensive listing of basic LID resources
- Low Impact Development Center, Inc - A non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of Low Impact Development technology.
- Low Impact Development Urban Design Tools - An interactive design page including standards and specifications for Integrated Management Practices