Case Study: Incorporating Innovative Stormwater Management Technologies Into A Sustainable Integrated Use System
By Mark B. Miller, Research Scientist, AquaShield, Inc.
AquaShield™, Inc. showcased a sustainable approach to water management using various stormwater treatment and water conservation technologies at their new corporate headquarters in Chattanooga, TN, with Congressman Zach Wamp as the keynote speaker for the event. Working with a blank canvas for a new building and site design, AquaShield decided to put into practice what many just talk about when it comes to implementing environmentally friendly practices. J. Kelly Williamson, President of AquaShield stated, "We are well aware of what AquaShield can do to treat stormwater runoff, but we were dedicated to incorporating these cutting edge water management practices into our building plans. While the integration of these technologies reduce pollution, they also conserve our limited water resources that otherwise would have been lost."
Mr. Williamson also pointed out that the return on the investment of the technologies will be less than one year, and the company's dependence on potable water can be reduced by about 50%. As witnessed during the drought of 2007, their widespread use would have better addressed the environmental health of the region.
The various technologies effectively reduce pollution from stormwater runoff, harvest water for nonpotable uses, and limit the disruption to the groundwater table. Stormwater and roof runoff are treated underground by hydrodynamic separation and filtration technologies that remove debris, sediment, oil and harmful bacteria. The treated water is then harvested within an underground modular storage unit, and later used for landscape irrigation, an outdoor fountain, and other non-potable building processes. Elsewhere on the property, infiltration to groundwater is enhanced through the use of a combination of load-supporting drivable grass and gravel paving technologies in the vehicle parking areas. As an added benefit, these unique paving features contribute to reducing the urban heat island effect caused by traditional paving materials while at the same time enhancing the viewscape of the area.
Prior to construction, a conventional approach to development was limited due to the presence of a major utility easement that runs through the property. As a result, only 89% of the land could be used, and the building size would have been reduced. Instead, by incorporating the integrated technologies into the site design, AquaShield was able to utilize 100% of the land allowing for a larger building and future development; while at the same time, reducing potable water use and costs.
The incorporation of these technologies into a sustainable integrated use system requires advanced design planning compared to traditional water management practices. The benefits of their implementation can be clearly realized in terms of practical uses and operational costs.
SOURCE: AquaShield, Inc.
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