Author: Rachel

Stormwater ponds are vital to managing runoff, improving water quality, and protecting downstream waterways. Found on commercial properties, HOAs, and municipal sites, these engineered systems are designed to capture and treat stormwater before it’s released – often holding water year-round, like a retention or wet pond.

But without routine maintenance, stormwater ponds can quickly lose efficiency and develop issues that affect performance, appearance, and compliance. Below are eight common stormwater pond problems, how to identify them, and how to keep your system functioning at its best.

1. Sediment Build-Up

Sediment naturally settles in stormwater ponds over time as runoff carries soil, debris, and pollutants from surrounding areas. Left unchecked, this buildup reduces pond depth, storage capacity, and water quality – often leading to algae growth and clogging.

Warning signs:

• The pond looks shallower or has visible sediment along the edges
• Murky or brown water after storms
• Slower drainage or water standing near inlets/outlets

How to fix it:

• Schedule periodic sediment surveys and inspections
• Remove excess sediment through dredging or vacuum excavation
• Maintain forebays and erosion controls upstream to prevent further accumulation

2. Algae Blooms

Excess nutrients from fertilizers, pet waste, or decaying vegetation can cause algae to grow rapidly in stormwater ponds – especially those that retain standing water.

Why it matters:
Algae blooms can deplete oxygen, produce foul odors, and create an unsightly surface film. Some blooms, like blue-green algae, can even pose health risks to people and pets.

How to fix it:

• Reduce nutrient runoff by managing fertilizer use
• Maintain a healthy vegetative buffer to absorb nutrients
• Add aeration or fountains to circulate water and reduce stagnation
• Remove nutrient-rich sediment when needed

3. Erosion of Pond Banks

Fluctuating water levels, poor vegetation coverage, and wave action can cause erosion along pond banks. Over time, this weakens structural integrity and increases sediment loading.

Warning signs:

• Exposed soil or roots around the shoreline
• Undercutting, slumping, or collapsing edges
• Bare or uneven slopes

How to fix it:

• Stabilize banks with deep-rooted native vegetation
• Install riprap or erosion control matting in problem areas
• Repair eroded sections promptly to prevent further damage

4. Clogged Inlets and Outlets

Healthy flow in and out of the pond is essential for maintaining water quality and preventing flooding. When debris, vegetation, or sediment blocks these structures, pond function declines.

Warning signs:

• Standing water or overflow after rainfall
• Visible debris blocking inlets or outlets
• Uneven pond water levels

How to fix it:

• Clear trash, leaves, and sediment from inlets/outlets after major storms
• Repair or replace damaged trash racks or grates
• Schedule routine inspections of outlet control structures

5. Excessive Aquatic Vegetation

Aquatic plants play an important role in filtering stormwater, but too much growth can choke the system, restrict flow, and create mosquito-friendly conditions.

Warning signs:

• Dense mats of plants on the surface or around edges
• Reduced water circulation
• Odors or signs of decay

How to fix it:

• Manage vegetation with regular seasonal maintenance
• Remove excessive growth mechanically or through approved aquatic treatments
• Maintain nutrient balance and circulation to prevent overgrowth

6. Mosquito Breeding

Stormwater ponds that remain stagnant or collect debris can become mosquito breeding grounds, especially in warmer months.

Warning signs:

• High mosquito activity around the pond
• Stagnant areas or surface scum
• Floating debris or decaying vegetation

How to fix it:

• Improve water movement with aeration or fountains
• Remove floating debris and decaying plant material
• Introduce fish species that feed on mosquito larvae (where appropriate)

7. Structural Damage

Stormwater ponds rely on control structures – such as risers, pipes, and outfalls – to manage water levels. Corrosion, cracking, or blockages can reduce performance or lead to failure.

Warning signs:

• Rusting, cracks, or settlement around outlet structures
• Leaks or inconsistent water levels
• Damaged or missing screens and grates

How to fix it:

• Schedule annual structural inspections
• Repair or replace failing components
• Use durable, corrosion-resistant materials for long-term performance

8. Trash & Debris Accumulation

Stormwater runoff often carries litter, leaves, and other debris into ponds. Without removal, this buildup clogs structures, reduces storage volume, and degrades water quality.

Warning signs:

• Floating debris or scum near inlets/outlets
• Discolored or odorous water
• Reduced water movement after rainfall

How to fix it:

• Implement regular debris removal
• Install trash racks or floating skimmers
• Educate property users about preventing litter runoff

Why Stormwater Pond Maintenance Is Essential

Routine stormwater pond maintenance ensures your system:

• Remains compliant with local and state stormwater regulations
• Protects against flooding, erosion, and costly repairs
• Preserves water quality and pond appearance
• Extends the lifespan of your infrastructure

Whether your pond holds water year-round or drains periodically, professional inspection and upkeep are key to keeping it functioning as designed.

Partner With iSTORMWATER for Stormwater Pond Maintenance

At iSTORMWATER, we provide comprehensive inspection, maintenance, and repair services for stormwater ponds across Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Delaware.

Our experts identify and resolve issues like sediment build-up, erosion, algae, and structural wear – keeping your pond clean, compliant, and effective.

Contact iSTORMWATER today to schedule a stormwater pond inspection or learn more about our maintenance programs.

📞 Call us at (410) 231-3455 or 💬 Contact us online.

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Why Stormwater Management Matters for Schools

University and school campuses often resemble small cities. With large parking lots, athletic fields, sidewalks, and rooftops, these institutions generate significant amounts of stormwater runoff. Without proper stormwater management, campuses can face flooding, erosion, property damage, and water quality issues that impact both the environment and the community.

Beyond compliance with federal, state, and local stormwater regulations, schools and universities have the opportunity to lead by example – integrating green infrastructure and innovative stormwater solutions that benefit students, staff, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Stormwater Challenges on Campuses

Educational campuses present unique stormwater management challenges:

• High Impervious Surfaces: Parking lots, dorms, academic buildings, and walkways create large areas where rainwater cannot infiltrate naturally.
• Heavy Foot and Vehicle Traffic: Runoff carries pollutants like oil, heavy metals, trash, and nutrients from vehicles and pedestrian activity.
• Athletic Facilities: Sports fields and stadiums often require turf and drainage systems that impact stormwater flow.
• Aging Infrastructure: Many schools operate with outdated stormwater systems that no longer meet modern standards.
• Regulatory Compliance: Universities and school districts must comply with local Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits and state-level stormwater regulations.

Effective Stormwater Solutions for Schools & Universities

1. Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure uses natural systems to absorb, slow, and filter stormwater:

• Bioretention Facilities & Rain Gardens: Planted depressions that collect and filter runoff, improving campus aesthetics while controlling flooding.
• Green Roofs: Vegetated rooftops reduce runoff, insulate buildings, and create outdoor learning spaces.
• Permeable Pavements: Used for walkways, parking lots, and courtyards to allow water to soak into the ground instead of overwhelming storm drains.

2. Stormwater Ponds & Basins

Retention and detention ponds capture runoff during storms. On campuses, these can double as educational tools for biology or environmental science classes. Proper maintenance – such as sediment removal and vegetation management – is critical to keep them functioning effectively.

3. Underground Systems

When space is limited, underground detention systems or vaults can be installed beneath athletic fields or parking lots, storing runoff and slowly releasing it to prevent downstream flooding.

4. Oil Grit Separators & Filters

Parking lots near student housing, stadiums, or staff facilities benefit from devices like oil grit separators, hydrodynamic separators, and proprietary filters (e.g., Contech StormFilter®). These remove sediment, oil, and pollutants from “first flush” runoff.

5. Routine Inspections & Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is essential for keeping stormwater systems working:

• Regular inspections of inlets, drains, and pipes.
• Clearing sediment and debris.
• Replenishing mulch and vegetation in bioretention areas.
• Monitoring erosion near athletic fields and construction zones.

Benefits of Campus Stormwater Management

Implementing stormwater solutions goes beyond regulatory compliance. Schools and universities can achieve:

• Improved Safety: Reduced flooding and icy conditions on walkways and parking lots.
• Environmental Protection: Cleaner rivers, lakes, and watersheds benefiting surrounding communities.
• Long-Term Cost Savings: Preventative maintenance is far less expensive than repairing damage from flooding or system failures.
• Educational Opportunities: On-campus stormwater facilities can serve as living laboratories for students studying environmental science, engineering, or sustainability.
• Positive Community Image: Demonstrating environmental stewardship enhances a school’s reputation and can support LEED or sustainability goals.

Compliance Considerations for Universities & Schools

• MS4 Permits: Many universities are considered non-traditional MS4s and must follow federal Clean Water Act guidelines.
• State & Local Requirements: Regulations vary by state (e.g., Maryland Department of the Environment, Virginia DEQ, Delaware DNREC).
• Construction Projects: New buildings or expansions require erosion and sediment control plans to minimize impacts during development.

Partnering With Stormwater Experts

Stormwater management requires a blend of engineering, maintenance, and regulatory expertise. Partnering with a professional stormwater management company ensures:

• Systems are designed to meet local and federal regulations.
• Maintenance is performed on schedule.
• Emergency issues (clogged drains, flooding, erosion) are resolved quickly.

Universities and schools have a responsibility to manage stormwater effectively – not only to comply with regulations but also to protect students, staff, and surrounding communities. By investing in green infrastructure, updated stormwater facilities, and regular maintenance, campuses can transform stormwater challenges into sustainable solutions that inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.

📞 Call us at (410) 231-3455 or 💬 Contact us online.

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Stormwater facilities – including ponds, bioretention cells, bioswales, and infiltration basins – are designed to filter pollutants, slow runoff, and protect waterways. But when invasive plants take hold, these facilities can lose effectiveness and require costly maintenance. Across Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and Delaware, invasive plants threaten both stormwater infrastructure and the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

This guide explains how to identify invasive plants in stormwater facilities, why they’re problematic, and which native alternatives thrive in our region.

Why Invasive Plants Are a Problem for Stormwater Systems

Invasive species spread aggressively and outcompete native plants, disrupting the balance that stormwater best management practices (BMPs) depend on.

Key impacts include:

• Reduced performance and clogged structures
• Increased erosion and slope instability
• Loss of biodiversity and wildlife habitat
• Higher maintenance costs
• Local regulatory restrictions on invasive species

Invasive Plants to Watch in Maryland Stormwater Facilities

Maryland stormwater ponds and bioretention areas often struggle with:

• Phragmites australis (common reed) – creates tall, dense monocultures in wet zones
• Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) – overtakes swales and shaded buffers
• Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) – orms thickets that block maintenance access

The Maryland Invasive Species Council lists these and many more plants that threaten stormwater function across the state.

Invasive Plants in Northern Virginia Stormwater Ponds and Bioswales

In Northern Virginia, invasive vines and shrubs are especially common:

• Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) – smothers trees and structures
• Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) – spreads along pond banks and buffers
• Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) – sprouts aggressively and damages infrastructure

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) provides invasive plant lists and guidance for landowners.

Invasive Plants Threatening DC Green Infrastructure

Washington, DC has invested heavily in green infrastructure projects like rain gardens and bioswales. Unfortunately, these systems are vulnerable to:

• English ivy (Hedera helix) – a common groundcover that quickly invades facilities
• Porcelainberry (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata) – a fast-growing vine often mistaken for grape
• Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) – spreads by rhizomes and can damage hardscape structures

In urban stormwater sites, invasives not only block water flow but can also compromise engineered soils and designed planting plans.

Invasive Plants in Delaware Stormwater Management Facilities

Delaware’s stormwater ponds and ditches are especially prone to:

• Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) – produces thousands of seeds and overtakes wetlands
• Japanese stiltgrass – a regional problem in shaded slopes
• Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana) – spreads from landscaping into stormwater buffers

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) offers best practices for invasive plant removal and native replacement.

Native Plants for Stormwater Facilities in the Chesapeake Bay Region

Replacing invasives with native species not only protects stormwater function but also supports Bay restoration goals.

Wet Edges & Shallow Water

• Blue flag iris (Iris versicolor)
• Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata)
• Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)
• Soft rush (Juncus effusus)

Slopes & Buffer Zones

• Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
• Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
• Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

Upland or Drier Zones

• River birch (Betula nigra)
• Red maple (Acer rubrum)
• Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
• Common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)

These native species stabilize soils, filter runoff, and provide food and habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.

Stormwater Facility Management Tips for Property Owners

• Inspect facilities at least three times per year (spring, summer, fall).
• Remove invasive seedlings early before they spread.
• Replant disturbed soil with fast-growing natives.
• Require contractors to use weed-free seed mixes and mulch.
• Document problem areas and schedule follow-up maintenance.
• Partner with professionals who understand both stormwater regulations and invasive species management.

Conclusion

Stormwater facilities in Maryland, Northern Virginia, DC, and Delaware are vital to protecting the Chesapeake Bay – but invasive plants threaten their effectiveness. By identifying invasives early and replanting with strong native species, property managers can protect water quality, reduce maintenance costs, and improve facility resilience.

👉 Need help with invasive plant control in your stormwater ponds, swales, or bioretention areas? Our team provides inspection, maintenance, and native planting services throughout the Chesapeake Bay region.

📞 Call us at (410) 231-3455 or 💬 Contact us online.

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Erosion is one of the most persistent challenges in stormwater management. Without proper controls, runoff can carry away valuable soil, clog drainage systems, and pollute nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. One of the most effective – and often overlooked – tools for slowing stormwater and preventing erosion is the check dam.

In this article, we’ll explore what check dams are, how they work, and why they are an important part of erosion and sediment control strategies for commercial properties, construction sites, and municipal stormwater systems.

What Is a Check Dam?

A check dam is a small, temporary or permanent barrier constructed across a drainage channel, swale, or small waterway. Unlike large dams, check dams are designed to be low-cost, low-profile structures that:

• Slow stormwater flow in ditches or channels
• Reduce erosive velocity of runoff
• Capture sediment before it reaches downstream waterways
• Encourage infiltration into the soil

Check dams can be made from a variety of materials, including:

• Rock or riprap (most common in permanent applications)
• Sandbags (for temporary projects)
• Logs, brush, or timber
  
• Wattles or compost filter socks
  
• Concrete or gabions (engineered for higher durability)

How Check Dams Reduce Erosion

The main goal of a check dam is to disrupt the energy of flowing water. Fast-moving runoff has the power to cut into soil, destabilize slopes, and transport large amounts of sediment downstream. By breaking up flow in stages, check dams help:

1. Decrease water velocity – slowing stormwater prevents scouring of channels and gullies.
2. Trap sediment – particles carried in runoff settle out behind the dam.
3. Promote infiltration – water pools temporarily, giving it more time to soak into the ground.
4. Protect infrastructure – stabilized drainage channels help prevent costly repairs to stormwater systems, roads, and landscaping.

Common Applications for Check Dams

Check dams are used across a wide range of stormwater and erosion control projects, including:

• Construction sites – Temporary check dams help control sediment-laden runoff until permanent stabilization is complete.
• Roadside ditches and swales – Prevent channel erosion along highways and commercial properties.
• Slopes and embankments – Useful in steep areas where runoff gains erosive force quickly.
• Urban stormwater systems – Often paired with bioswales or grassed channels to improve water quality.

Design Considerations for Effective Check Dams

While check dams are simple in concept, proper design and placement are critical for effectiveness and compliance with local stormwater regulations. Best practices include:

• Spacing: Install multiple check dams along a channel, ensuring the toe of the upstream dam is level with the crest of the downstream dam.
• Height: Typically less than 3 feet tall to prevent overtopping hazards.
• Anchoring: Materials must be properly keyed into the channel to resist displacement during high flows.
• Maintenance: Regular inspections are necessary to remove accumulated sediment, repair damage, and ensure flow is not bypassing the dam.

Environmental and Regulatory Benefits

Check dams provide both environmental protection and regulatory compliance benefits:

• Help properties meet EPA NPDES stormwater permit requirements by reducing sediment discharge.
• Protect local waterways from excessive nutrient and pollutant loads.
• Support sustainable site management by preserving soil health and stabilizing disturbed areas.

Professional Erosion Control Services

While small-scale check dams can be installed with basic materials, larger projects or sites subject to strict stormwater regulations require professional design and maintenance. Partnering with an experienced stormwater management team ensures check dams are properly sized, installed, and maintained for long-term performance.

📞 Call us at (410) 231-3455 or 💬 Contact us online to discuss stormwater solutions tailored to your site.

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Key Takeaway

Check dams are a cost-effective and practical erosion control tool that can play a vital role in stormwater management. By slowing runoff, capturing sediment, and protecting drainage systems, they help safeguard both property and the environment.

Whether on a construction site, a roadside channel, or a commercial property, properly designed check dams should be part of any comprehensive erosion and sediment control plan.

Stormwater runoff is one of the biggest environmental challenges facing Northern Virginia communities today. With rapid development, dense urban areas, and sensitive waterways like the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay, effective stormwater management is not just important – it’s required by law.

For property managers, developers, engineers, and local governments, understanding Virginia’s stormwater management requirements is essential for compliance, avoiding costly penalties, and protecting local ecosystems.

This guide breaks down Virginia’s stormwater regulations, how they apply in Northern Virginia, and what property owners and managers need to know to stay compliant.

Why Stormwater Management Matters in Virginia

Stormwater runoff occurs when rain or melting snow flows over paved surfaces, rooftops, and compacted soils. Instead of soaking into the ground, this water picks up pollutants such as:

• Sediment and erosion byproducts
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Oil, grease, and automotive fluids
• Trash and debris

In Northern Virginia, stormwater runoff flows into local streams like Four Mile Run, Accotink Creek, and Cameron Run – eventually reaching the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. This contributes to erosion, flooding, infrastructure damage, and water quality impairments.

Virginia’s regulations are designed to reduce these risks and meet the Chesapeake Bay TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) pollution reduction goals set by the EPA.

Key Stormwater Management Requirements in Virginia

Virginia’s stormwater regulations are administered by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and local programs, including counties and municipalities in Northern Virginia. The requirements vary depending on whether you are involved in construction, redevelopment, or ongoing maintenance.

1. Construction Activity Requirements

Projects that disturb 1 acre or more of land (or 2,500 square feet or more in the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area) must obtain coverage under the Virginia Stormwater Management Program (VSMP) Construction General Permit.

This includes requirements for:

• Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Plans: Preventing soil from washing off construction sites.
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP): Detailing how a site will manage pollutants.
• Post-Construction Stormwater Controls: Long-term facilities like bioretention basins, detention ponds, or permeable pavements to manage runoff.

2. Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (CBPA) Requirements

In Northern Virginia, properties located within the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area face stricter rules. This includes:

• Protecting Resource Protection Areas (RPAs) such as tidal shores, wetlands, and perennial streams.
• Maintaining 100-foot vegetative buffers along sensitive waterways.
• Limiting impervious surfaces and requiring stormwater BMPs (Best Management Practices).

3. MS4 Permit Compliance (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems)

Counties, cities, and towns in Northern Virginia – including Fairfax County, Arlington, and Alexandria – operate under MS4 permits. These permits require municipalities to:

• Reduce pollutants discharged through storm sewers.
• Implement public education and outreach.
• Conduct inspections and maintenance of stormwater facilities.

Property owners with private stormwater management facilities must keep them in working order, since local governments often require annual inspections and maintenance records.

4. Long-Term Stormwater Facility Maintenance

Once stormwater facilities like detention ponds, rain gardens, or underground filters are installed, ongoing maintenance is mandatory. Typical requirements include:

• Regular inspections by a licensed professional.
• Sediment and debris removal.
• Vegetation management (mowing, replanting, or invasive species removal).
• Repairs to inlets, outlets, and structural components.

Failure to maintain a facility can lead to enforcement actions, fines, and increased flooding or erosion risks on your property.

Northern Virginia-Specific Stormwater Regulations

While DEQ oversees stormwater at the state level, Northern Virginia jurisdictions have their own programs and enforcement. Examples include:

• Fairfax County – Requires annual inspection certifications for private stormwater management facilities.
• Arlington County – Has stricter stormwater requirements for redevelopment, especially regarding on-site detention.
• Alexandria – Implements a strong stormwater utility fee to fund system upgrades and Chesapeake Bay restoration.
• Loudoun & Prince William Counties – Enforce stormwater BMP maintenance agreements with property owners.

If you own or manage property in Northern Virginia, checking local stormwater ordinances is just as important as meeting state-level requirements.

Staying Compliant: What Property Owners Should Do

For commercial property managers and owners in Northern Virginia, stormwater compliance is an ongoing responsibility. Here are proactive steps:

1. Know Your Facility – Identify whether your property has stormwater facilities such as ponds, sand filters, or underground detention systems.
2. Schedule Routine Inspections – Hire a certified inspector to check your stormwater facility at least annually.
3. Perform Preventative Maintenance – Remove sediment, repair structures, and manage vegetation before issues become costly.
4. Keep Records – Maintain inspection and maintenance reports to demonstrate compliance during county or DEQ reviews.
5. Work With Experts – Partner with a stormwater management company to handle inspections, reporting, and repairs.

Final Thoughts

Virginia’s stormwater management requirements are comprehensive – and for good reason. In Northern Virginia, where rapid development meets sensitive waterways, compliance is critical for both environmental protection and property management.

By understanding state and local regulations, maintaining your stormwater facilities, and partnering with qualified professionals, you can protect your property, stay compliant, and help preserve the Chesapeake Bay for generations to come.

📞 Call us at (410) 231-3455 or 💬 Contact us online to schedule a stormwater inspection or consultation in Northern Virginia.

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