The key premise of LID is to allow natural systems (nature as well as human-made systems that emulate natural processes) to manage stormwater when and wherever possible. A critical paradigm shift must take place in order to accept and integrate this premise into the mainstream of stormwater engineering and management. Historically, stormwater management equated to stormwater disposal. With LID, stormwater is managed as a resource rather than a liability.

Low impact development helps manage both stormwater quality and stormwater quantity.

• Quantity concerns include flooding and property damage, damage to stream channels during wet months, lower stream flows during dry months, and less groundwater recharge.

• Water quality concerns arise when stormwater runoff collects sediments, nutrients, acids and salts, heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and pathogens. Increased water temperature is also a major water quality concern.

The summary talking points of LID:

• LID is simple and effective. It results in hydrologically functional landscapes that generate less surface runoff, less pollution, less erosion, and less overall damage to lakes, streams and coastal waters.
• LID is economical. It costs less than conventional stormwater management systems to construct and maintain while offering/enhancing quality of life.
• LID is flexible. It offers a wide variety of structural and nonstructural techniques in a wide variety of sites to provide for both runoff quality and quantity benefits.
• LID is a balanced approach. LID is an advanced, ecologically-based land development technology that seeks to better integrate the built environment with the natural environment.

Low impact development (LID) was pioneered in Maryland in 1985 to address economic and environmental issues associated with water quality concerns in Chesapeake Bay. Since then, the concept of LID has been accepted and implemented to varying degrees nationwide.

Examples of LID can vary from community-wide rain garden initiatives (Kansas City 10,000 Rain gardens project) to site-specific development projects that incorporate LID best management practices . Projects in Nebraska and the region are being designed and installed in growing numbers as the concept becomes more accepted.

• A sample of current regional projects is listed in the resource section.
• For more information, two of the most comprehensive Web sites available are:

EPA Low Impact Development Fact Sheets

The Low Impact Development Center

Information presented within the property design and management section of this Water Web site has been reviewed by University of Nebraska - Lincoln Property Design & Management Team members Kelly Feehan, Thomas Franti, Steven Rodie and Richard Sutton.