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Much of the rainwater flowing into storm drains
and nearby streams is collected in dry ponds located in or near
our neighborhoods. The pond may improve the water quality of
collected stormwater by allowing sediments and attached nutrients,
certain types of chemicals, yard debris, and litter to settle
out gradually before flowing out of the pond. By detaining
polluted stormwater runoff, cleaner water flows from the pond
into local streams, the Potomac River, and the Chesapeake Bay.
If the bottom of a dry pond remains naturally
vegetated, the water quality function of that pond is enhanced.
Plants and their root systems filter sediments and absorb nutrients
that otherwise would flow into the stream. To promote this
natural vegetative growth in dry ponds and enhance the water
quality function, the Countys Maintenance and Stormwater
Management Division (MSMD) will minimize its yearly pond bottom
mowing activities to just a narrow swath on each side of the
ditches in the pond. The County will continue to mow the
dam embankment and access ways. Look for signs in the ponds
that show the areas to remain natural.
About
a year ago, the County adopted a new policy to encourage tree
preservation and replanting in areas in and around stormwater
management ponds. Working with a County-approved plan, property
owners and homeowner associations can plant on the banks of
wet or dry ponds and in the bottom of a dry pond. Areas that
cannot be planted include the dam embankment, emergency spillway,
access easements, and areas closer than three meters to other
structural elements.
To obtain a planting application form or
get more information about the planting or mowing policies,
call 703-934-2860.
Pictured is a stormwater management pond that has been left
to grow naturally. The homeowner association has added to the
vegetation by planting trees (covered with protectors) around
the perimeter of the pond.
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