CESSWI Stormwater Management Practices

Question 1

What is the goal of stormwater management?

Accepted Answer

Reduce pollution and manage flow

Answer

The goal of stormwater management is to effectively control the quantity and quality of runoff generated from rainfall. This involves reducing the volume and velocity of stormwater to prevent flooding and erosion, while also treating it to remove pollutants before it enters natural water bodies. Comprehensive management protects infrastructure, human safety, and environmental health.

Question 2

What is a retention basin used for?

Accepted Answer

Store stormwater temporarily

Answer

A retention basin is a permanent pond designed to hold stormwater runoff for an extended period, allowing it to slowly infiltrate into the ground or be released at a controlled rate. This temporary storage helps to reduce peak flows during storm events, preventing downstream flooding and erosion, and also allows for some pollutant removal through settling and natural processes.

Question 3

How does a bioswale function?

Accepted Answer

Filters and infiltrates runoff

Answer

A bioswale is a vegetated, shallow channel designed to convey stormwater runoff while simultaneously filtering pollutants and promoting infiltration into the ground. The plants and engineered soil media within the bioswale work together to remove sediments, nutrients, and other contaminants from the runoff. This green infrastructure approach helps manage stormwater volume and improve water quality.

Question 4

Why are permeable pavements beneficial?

Accepted Answer

Enable infiltration

Answer

Permeable pavements are designed with porous surfaces that allow stormwater to filter through them and infiltrate into the underlying soil, rather than running off the surface. This process helps to reduce stormwater runoff volume, replenish groundwater, and filter out pollutants. By enabling infiltration, permeable pavements mitigate flooding and improve water quality.

Question 5

What role do vegetated rooftops play?

Accepted Answer

Delay runoff and cool buildings

Answer

Vegetated rooftops, also known as green roofs, are designed to absorb rainfall, which delays the flow of stormwater runoff into drainage systems. The plants and soil also provide insulation and through evapotranspiration, they help cool the building and its surrounding environment. This reduces the urban heat island effect and lowers energy consumption for air conditioning.

(CESSWI) Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Storm Water Inspector Practice Test

(CESSWI) Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Storm Water Inspector Practice Test

CESSWI Stormwater Management Practices