All Flashcards
Effect of urban runoff on aquatic life?
Contamination of water bodies, harming/killing organisms.
Cause of Southern California beach closures after rain?
High levels of pollutants in urban runoff.
Effect of increased runoff volume/velocity?
Soil erosion and flooding in urban/downstream areas.
What causes decreased groundwater levels in urban areas?
Impervious surfaces prevent water infiltration.
Define urban runoff.
Water from rain/snow flowing over man-made surfaces.
Define impervious surfaces.
Surfaces preventing water infiltration (e.g., roads).
Define permeable pavement.
Pavement allowing water to seep through.
Define green roofs.
Vegetation planted on rooftops to absorb rainwater.
Define rain gardens.
Depressions with vegetation to collect and filter runoff.
How does permeable pavement help?
Allows water to seep into the ground.
How do green roofs reduce runoff?
They absorb rainwater with vegetation.
How do rain gardens function?
Collect and filter runoff with native vegetation.
How does tree planting help?
Trees absorb rainwater and reduce runoff volume.
How does reducing impervious surfaces help?
Allows for more water infiltration into the ground.