What design strategy does Low Impact Development use?

• A. Maximizes water runoff
• B. Manages rainwater on-site
• C. Ignores natural hydrology
• D. Increases land disturbance

Answer: (B)

Low Impact Development (LID) is a design strategy that focuses on managing rainwater on-site to minimize its impact on the surrounding environment. The goal of LID is to mimic natural processes and reduce the amount of stormwater runoff, which can lead to erosion, pollution, and flooding. By developing systems that capture and utilize rainwater where it falls, LID techniques can enhance groundwater recharge, improve water quality, and provide ecological benefits.

Practices commonly associated with LID include permeable pavements, green roofs, rain gardens, and bioswales, all of which allow rainwater to infiltrate the ground rather than running off into storm drains. This approach aligns with sustainable landscaping principles and effectively addresses water management challenges in urban settings. Thus, the central tenet of LID is its emphasis on rainwater management on-site, which contributes to healthier ecosystems and improved water resources.