By Kirk Stelsel
Water is the most plentiful natural resource on Earth. It sustains all known forms of life and is the driving force behind some of the planet’s most breathtaking natural features.
Yet, for all the good it does, water can also be very destructive. Modern, paved-over urban landscapes prevent rainwater absorption and force runoff into antiquated infrastructure. Storms overwhelm inadequate sewer and wastewater treatment facilities, resulting in hundreds of billions of gallons of sewage polluting North American streams, rivers and lakes every year.
Stormwater pollution issues can be solved by choosing precast concrete retention/detention systems. In addition, replacing obsolete sewer systems with precast catch basins, manholes and pipe offers many options for customization. Underground precast stormwater systems can be sized to meet any need, from public garages and parking lots to schools, office buildings, residential developments and even individual homes. Once in place, precast structures collect stormwater runoff underground for either controlled discharge or environmentally responsible reuse.
Precast systems install quickly and can be immediately backfilled to final grade with no need to wait for curing to support construction loads. The proven structural integrity of precast allows for secure water containment and continuous support of high external loads. After installation, precast retention/detention systems offer maintenance access inside with clear spans and open galleries where workers can remove debris and other sediment that can collect throughout the life of the system.
By controlling runoff effluent during storm surges, offering opportunities for reuse, and providing durable and long-lasting options that are economical and sustainable, precast stormwater systems are the perfect solution. Together with other precast sanitary and stormwater products, stormwater retention/detention systems ensure water remains a beneficial resource, rather than a destructive force.
To learn more about precast concrete stormwater systems, or to find a precast plant in your area, visit
www.precast.org.
Kirk Stelsel is NPCA’s communication manager.
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