Stormwater Retrofit Study of the Plumtree Branch and Tiber Branch Watersheds

Improved stormwater drainage and flood control in the Tiber and Plumtree Branch Watersheds, reduces threats to public health, safety, and welfare.

Howard County’s Plumtree Branch Watershed and Tiber Branch Watershed have experienced past flooding events that threatened public health, safety, and welfare. Development in the watersheds dates back to the late 18th century, and in some areas the storm drain network is a patchwork of unmapped pipes, swales and overland flow. As a result, Howard County’s Department of Public Works is undertaking stormwater retrofit studies which will include drainage assessments and improvement studies of existing stormwater infrastructure, opportunities for improved stormwater infrastructure and management, and opportunities for water quality improvement.

Biohabitats was brought in to study existing conditions and prepare a comprehensive study. Reviewing available storm drain information, development plans, site topography, resources, and historic aerial photos, the team created a timeline for changes in development, land use, and drainage patterns in the watershed. At the same time, Biohabitats performed detailed assessments of the existing storm drain infrastructure to verify mapped infrastructure, locate un-mapped infrastructure, and identify areas of concerns. In preparation for these field assessments, Biohabitats created ArcCollector forms, allowing field crews to collect data digitally using handheld tablets. Biohabitats also developed extensive guidance for field crews to ensure consistent data collection and interpretation.

After documenting opportunities for flood control and drainage improvements, Biohabitats developed a recommended list of projects the county could implement, identifying areas to be served by the projects, as well as the overall priority of each project. Biohabitats developed fact sheets for each project that included a location map, photos, descriptions of existing conditions, and options for what may be implemented to alleviate drainage concerns.

TAGS

• Analysis+Planning
• Assessment+Monitoring
• Climate Adaptation + Resilience
• Ecological Restoration