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Detention Basins: Understanding, Troubleshooting, and Innovative Solutions


Detention basins, also called Detention Ponds, play a crucial role in stormwater management, but they can face various challenges over time. This article explores what detention basins are, how they work, common problems, and innovative solutions to enhance their performance.


 

What is a Detention Basin?


A detention basin is a large, constructed depression designed to temporarily store stormwater runoff from surrounding areas. These basins help prevent localized flooding by reducing the peak rate of runoff to streams or storm sewers, giving stormwater runoff a place to go that isn't your property.


 

How Does a Detention Basin Work?


Detention basins function by:

  1. Collecting stormwater runoff during rain events

  2. Holding the water temporarily

  3. Releasing it at a controlled rate through outlet structures


This process helps to:

  • Prevent downstream flooding

  • Reduce erosion in streams

  • Potentially improve water quality by allowing some sediment to settle


 

Common Detention Basin Problems and Solutions


1. Basin Not Draining

Problem: Water remains in the basin long after a storm event.

Solution:

  • Clear debris from outlet structures

  • Inspect for and repair any damage to outlet pipes

  • Perform regular maintenance to remove fine sediment

  • Consider implementing innovative technologies like GEPS to enhance infiltration performance


2. Basin Filling Too Quickly

Problem: The basin reaches capacity faster than designed.

Solution:

  • Remove accumulated sediment to restore storage capacity

  • Evaluate and improve upstream erosion control measures

  • Install a GEPS system to optimize water distribution and infiltration, enhancing local infiltration rates


3. Erosion Issues
Foggy forest with tall pines and aspens, earthy ground, and a small stream in the foreground. Misty atmosphere, lush greenery.

Problem: Erosion of the surrounding ground or deterioration of surrounding turf.

Solution:

  • Install riprap or fabric-formed concrete

  • Use erosion control blankets for turf establishment

  • Implement GEPS technology to stabilize soil moisture and reduce erosion potential


4. Poor Water Quality
Green algae covers a pond, bordered by dense trees under a blue sky with clouds. The scene is tranquil and lush with natural beauty.

Problem: Stagnant water, algae growth, or unpleasant odors.

Solution:

  • Introduce aquatic plants to absorb excess nutrients

  • Consider aeration systems for wet basins

  • Install a GEPS system to mitigate standing water and avoid conditions that would hurt water quality


 

Enhancing Detention Basin Performance with GEPS

The Groundwater Energy Passive System (GEPS) represents a cutting-edge solution for optimizing detention basin performance. This innovative technology offers several advantages:

  1. Improved Infiltration: GEPS units significantly enhance water infiltration rates.

  2. Enhanced Water Distribution: The system facilitates more efficient lateral and vertical water movement, reducing surface ponding.

  3. Sustainable Design: GEPS operates passively without requiring external power or maintenance, making it a cost-effective set-and-forget long-term solution.

  4. Adaptability: GEPS can be easily integrated into existing detention basins or incorporated into new designs.

  5. Year-Round Effectiveness: Unlike some traditional solutions, GEPS maintains its performance across seasons and varying weather conditions.


By addressing common detention basin issues at their root cause, GEPS offers a comprehensive solution that goes beyond surface-level fixes. Its ability to enhance infiltration, reduce erosion, and improve water quality makes it an ideal choice for both new installations and retrofitting existing basins.



 

Conclusion

Detention basins are essential components of stormwater management systems, but they require proper maintenance and sometimes innovative solutions to function optimally. While traditional maintenance practices remain important, integrating advanced technologies like GEPS can significantly enhance basin performance, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and provide more sustainable stormwater management solutions.


By understanding how detention basins work and implementing effective solutions, including cutting-edge technologies like GEPS, we can ensure these vital stormwater management systems continue to protect our communities and environments effectively.


 

Interested? Learn more or find a licensed installer near you today!



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