Stormwater Outfalls
Understanding Stormwater Outlets
Stormwater Outlets or outfalls are a point where stormwater is discharged from a storm sewer or culvert. These stormwater control measures (SCMs) are the most common place to take samples and monitor pollutant levels.
Stormwater Discharge Point
Outfalls or outlets may release stormwater into a retention or detention area, stream or lake. Because these discharge points convey fast moving water, they are subject to erosion. Riprap or another dissipation material may surround the outfall to slow the velocity of runoff.
Like all SCMs, outfalls are designed to function for each site specifically and therefore may have different components.
Components of Outfalls
Apron
Headwall
Level Spreader
Rip Rap
Storm Grate
Trash Rack
Swales are designed with soil that allows water to infiltrate the ground, providing ground water recharge. Many SCMs utilize sunlight to facilitate evaporation and vegetation to facilitate denitrification
How SCMs Improve Water Quality
The detached pipe on this property allowed water to flow freely over unprotected soil, leading to the massive eroded area.
Severe Outlet Erosion | Athens, Georgia
AQUALIS stormwater professionals inspected a retail property and found severe damage to multiple catch basins, necessitating repairs to prevent environmental liability and ensure site operations.
Catch Basin Spay Cast | Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
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