Innovations in Stormwater Management: Key Trends to Watch
Author: Duyen Lam
As the leader in sustainable water management, AQUALIS is excited about the opportunity to integrate innovative engineering solutions that enhance the traditional stormwater and wastewater repair and maintenance services. This integration of engineering a project from concept to completion and beyond is key to ensuring that investments in stormwater infrastructure are not only protected but also optimized for long-term performance.
As urban areas grow and face the challenges of climate uncertainty, maintaining aging traditional stormwater infrastructure and expanding Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) will become increasingly complex. One of the most promising trends in stormwater management is the growing use of data-driven technologies to support maintenance and inspection efforts. The combination of real-time data and advanced analytics, along with AQUALIS’ expertise, will enhance our ability to manage flood risks and pollution more effectively, but also serve our clients better.
A key technology making an impact is Geographic Information Systems (GIS). When combined with real-time data from sensors and field teams, GIS offers valuable insights into stormwater infrastructure—such as location and historical records of pipes, channels, culverts and outfalls. This allows for proactive maintenance and prompt response to emerging issues. GIS can also serve as an asset management tool, organizing data by geolocation and enabling efficient data analysis. While the initial investment in sensors and asset management can be significant, the long-term benefits can far outweigh the cost of potential infrastructure damage and public health risks.
As mentioned previously, many cities are increasingly turning to green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) as a solution to combat the effects of climate change and support aging systems. However, these systems can be optimized through monitoring. Real-time data not only helps track performance but also offers opportunities for clients to leverage stormwater and nutrient credits with regulatory agencies. Combined with GIS, this data allows maintenance teams to quickly identify areas in need of attention and efficiently deploy resources across the urban landscape.
Another emerging trend is the use of forecast-based control in GSI management. By leveraging predictive models and weather forecasts, we can proactively manage infrastructure ahead of rainfall events, minimizing flooding and pollution. In arid regions, forecast-based control also helps optimize water usage by adjusting irrigation schedules based on weather patterns and water demand. This not only aids in flood management but also promotes water conservation, a vital effort in areas with limited water resources.
As the stormwater management landscape continues to evolve, these data-driven and predictive tools hold significant potential to enhance infrastructure performance, protect public health, safeguard our natural resources and provide clients with the best service. If you have questions about implementing and utilizing GIS, request a consultation today to speak to one of our experts.
