Development can increase impervious surfaces (streets, driveways, parking lots, sidewalks). This increases stormwater runoff. Low Impact Development reduces impervious surfaces compared to traditional development.
Low Impact Development mimics the natural water cycle as much as possible, keeping water on site and allowing it to soak into the ground. This decreases negative impacts on downstream water resources. It uses landscape features that hold and filter stormwater while offering space for increased vegetation.
These practices can be applied to open spaces, rooftops, parking lots, sidewalks and medians. With proper planning and construction, Low Impact Development can be used on a communitywide scale.
Low Impact Development Projects in Dakota County
For more information, contact Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District or the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization.
Low Impact Development features are often evaluated for county buildings and facilities. Topics such as stormwater management, pervious pavement, native landscaping, diversion of roof drains for infiltration, and stormwater reuse are considered as a part of the Dakota County Building Design Standards.