The document discusses the differences between stormwater detention and retention. Detention systems temporarily store stormwater runoff and slowly release it, while retention systems store runoff permanently. Examples of detention include dry ponds and underground systems. Retention systems are typically wet ponds that maintain a permanent pool of water. Both methods help control flooding and improve water quality by removing pollutants. Retention ponds require more space but provide habitat benefits, while detention systems are simpler if space is limited. Regular maintenance is needed for both to ensure proper functioning.
The document discusses the differences between stormwater detention and retention. Detention systems temporarily store stormwater runoff and slowly release it, while retention systems store runoff permanently. Examples of detention include dry ponds and underground systems. Retention systems are typically wet ponds that maintain a permanent pool of water. Both methods help control flooding and improve water quality by removing pollutants. Retention ponds require more space but provide habitat benefits, while detention systems are simpler if space is limited. Regular maintenance is needed for both to ensure proper functioning.
The document discusses the differences between stormwater detention and retention. Detention systems temporarily store stormwater runoff and slowly release it, while retention systems store runoff permanently. Examples of detention include dry ponds and underground systems. Retention systems are typically wet ponds that maintain a permanent pool of water. Both methods help control flooding and improve water quality by removing pollutants. Retention ponds require more space but provide habitat benefits, while detention systems are simpler if space is limited. Regular maintenance is needed for both to ensure proper functioning.
The document discusses the differences between stormwater detention and retention. Detention systems temporarily store stormwater runoff and slowly release it, while retention systems store runoff permanently. Examples of detention include dry ponds and underground systems. Retention systems are typically wet ponds that maintain a permanent pool of water. Both methods help control flooding and improve water quality by removing pollutants. Retention ponds require more space but provide habitat benefits, while detention systems are simpler if space is limited. Regular maintenance is needed for both to ensure proper functioning.
Page 1 of 4 Republic of the Philippines NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Cabanatuan City
Detention and retention are often used interchangeably since they both do similar functions to
each other. A detention BMP (Best Management Practice) is an area where storm water is
temporarily stored, or detained, and is eventually allowed to drain slowly when water levels
recede in the receiving channel.
Example of Stormwater Detention
• An example of stormwater detention system is a dry pond. These are usually dry except during
or after rainfall events or snowmelt. They are meant to slow down the flow of stormwater and keep it
for a short time.
• The majority of underground systems are also considered to be detention systems.
Why Detain Stormwater
Stormwater detention systems capture water during rainfall and slowly drains it, during
rainfall a significant amount of rainwater goes into the detention system instead of potentially
causing flood. And once the rain stops, it will continue to drain slowly, preparing for another
downpour. Page 2 of 4 Republic of the Philippines NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Cabanatuan City
Stormwater Retention
Wet retention ponds are a stormwater control structure that provides retention and
treatment of contaminated stormwater runoff.
By capturing and retaining stormwater runoff, wet retention ponds control stormwater
quantity and quality. The ponds natural processes then work to remove pollutants. Retention
ponds should be surrounded by natural vegetation to improve bank stability and improve
aesthetic benefits.
Water is diverted to a wet retention pond by a network of underground pipes connecting
storm drains to the pond. The system allows for large amounts of water to enter the pond, and the outlet lets out small amounts of water as needed to maintain the desired water level
Page 3 of 4 Republic of the Philippines NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Cabanatuan City
ADVANTAGES
• Retention ponds are simple if space is provided
• Collects and improves water quality.
• Naturally processes water without additional equipment.
• Improved stormwater collection and flood control.
• New habitats are created.
• Can be used for recreational purposes.
DISADVANTAGES
• Can be a drowning hazard.
• Large areas of land are needed.
• Negative water quality impacts if not properly designed.
Maintenance and Considerations
• Identifying and repairing areas of erosion - A few times a year and after major storms,
check for gullies and other disturbances on the bank.
• removing sediment and debris - Keeping pipes clear of debris and removing sediment
ensures proper function. Remove debris around and in ponds before it reaches the
outlets to prevent problems.
• Maintaining vegetation - The amount of maintenance depends on the type of vegetation
surrounding the basin. Some grasses need weekly mowing, and others can be
