DesPlaines Watershed

What are Inlet and Outlet Structures? The inlet and outlet structures of your stormwater detention pond are the most crucial component in maintaining the water level of your pond to prevent flooding in your neighborhood. The inlet structure is where the pipe that collects stormwater run-off from impermeable surfaces such as roads, roofs, and sidewalks empties into the detention pond. The water gradually releases to local waterways through outlet structures. Sometimes inlet and outlet structures fill with trash, sediment, or…

During storms, water is usually absorbed into natural surfaces like soil and vegetation. However, if the stormwater lands on a hard surface such as sidewalks, roadways and rooftops, the stormwater cannot be absorbed and will run-off, likely to a nearby stormwater detention basin. Detention basins, or detention ponds, collect and store stormwater to prevent flooding and erosion of local waterways. These detention basins can be found near residential and commercial areas. They can create a beautiful environment for homeowners to…

No one wants to deal with a flooded basement or maneuver around submerged streets after a storm. Unfortunately, the risk of flooding increases with suburban development—native vegetation, soil, and landscape depressions that store stormwater are replaced with impermeable surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and rooftops. Rainwater easily runs off these surfaces, putting more strain on our waterways and stormwater infrastructure. Detention ponds, also called detention basins or retention ponds, are important structures that help prevent flooding. A detention pond…

What is the purpose of a detention pond? A stormwater detention pond, or detention basin, is a man-made pond in residential and commercial areas that collects stormwater run-off from surrounding landscapes, roads, and rooftops. The detention pond temporarily holds stormwater until it slowly releases into a local waterway. Depending on its design, some detention basins are dry-bottomed and all the water drains between storms. Some are more pond-like and hold open water all of the time. Finally, some are more…

Adding Native Plants to Your Landscape Looking to add native plants to your landscape this spring? While adapted to our area, native plants have preferences on where they’d like to be planted. Below are tips to consider when adding natives to your yard: When designing your landscape: Pay attention to the different types of native plants in your area. What have you seen thriving outside your local library or in your neighbor’s yard? Each native plant is adapted to specific…