Northern Arizona University
OP-22: Rainwater Management
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
2.00 / 2.00 |
Dayna
McKay Data Analyst Office of Sustainability |
Which of the following best describes the institution’s approach to rainwater management?:
A brief description of the institution’s green infrastructure and LID practices:
Stormwater runoff is an important factor in water conservation in our region. The more water that can be retained on-site, the less artificial irrigation is needed. The City of Flagstaff created an extensive Low Impact Development Plan that the university has adopted for all new construction projects. The City of Flagstaff's Low Impact Development Plan is also used to control stormwater runoff across campus by keeping the first inch of rainfall on-site.
A copy of the institution’s rainwater management policy, plan, and/or guidelines:
A brief description of the institution’s rainwater management policy, plan, and/or guidelines that supports the responses above:
The **Storm Water Management Program (SWMP)** serves the purpose of adhering to the **Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) general permit (AZG2202-002)** for the discharge of stormwater from the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) of the **Northern Arizona University Flagstaff campus**. Learn more at this link: (https://in.nau.edu/environmental-health-and-safety/).
For information about our Landscape Master Plan, which outlines **Low Impact Development (LID)** principles, standards, and concept designs for building development and landscaping, visit this website:
https://in.nau.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/60/2018/08/2015-Landscape-Masterplan-Final-ek.pdf
You'll also find valuable insights in **section five** of our guidelines and technical standards, specifically focusing on **"Stormwater Drainage Design and Surface Water Procedures."** This section thoroughly explores strategies for **rainwater management**. Dive into it by clicking here: https://in.nau.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/139/2021/01/Complete-Design-Guidelines-and-Technical-Standards-Manual.pdf).
Examples on campus:
Stormwater Management Goals and Strategies:
NAU's stormwater management strategy combines multiple goals and strategies. These include capturing and using stormwater for irrigation, aligning with LEED water collection and reuse objectives, and creating designs resilient to freezing and thawing conditions. The approach integrates stormwater management into site design, often exceeding regulatory standards. It also involves addressing project-specific drainage issues and ensuring the containment of the first inch of precipitation.
Quality and Regulatory Compliance:
NAU is committed to preserving stormwater quality and quantity, often surpassing regulatory requirements. Innovative methods are explored to enhance performance, and the university takes measures to retain the first inch of precipitation.
Sustainable Site Development:
NAU emphasizes sustainable site development practices, encompassing the conservation of natural areas, minimizing impervious surfaces, and integrating various stormwater management features.
Reports and Documentation:
Documentation is a vital part of NAU's stormwater management. Each project involves preparing a Storm Water Drainage Report, which evolves with increasing specificity and undergoes thorough reviews for compliance. Collaboration among project team members, including Landscape Architects, Civil Engineers, and Architects, is central to the process.
Watershed and Flood Prevention:
Efforts are made to ensure that water flows remain within the current watershed sub-basin, with attention to elevation requirements and the prevention of sunken accessways or patios.
Grading, Drainage, and Efficiency:
Efficient grading and drainage away from buildings are key. Rapid drainage, safe water routing, and the elimination of hazardous puddles are part of the strategy. Additionally, NAU follows Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) to prevent pollution during construction.
Roof Drainage, Soils, and Snow Management:
NAU addresses roof drainage, soil suitability, and snow management. This includes designing efficient roof drainage systems, considering freeze-resistant solutions, and incorporating ancillary water sources. Soil testing is conducted to verify suitability, and proper soil compaction and ground surfacing materials are chosen.
Additional Procedures and Coordination:
Additional procedures include independent Storm Water Drainage studies, the development of project-specific design guidelines, and early-stage demonstrations. Collaboration among team members is encouraged throughout the design process, and water budgets are analyzed for landscape usage. Thorough reviews are conducted to ensure compliance with standards and project-specific requirements.
Website URL where information about the institution’s green infrastructure and LID practices is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.