How is stormwater management primarily assessed?

Stormwater management is primarily assessed through the use of mathematical modeling because this approach allows for the simulation of various storm events and their impact on a given area. Mathematical models can analyze the relationship between rainfall, runoff, infiltration, and the flow of water through different landscapes and drainage systems. By inputting various parameters such as land use, soil types, and precipitation rates, engineers and planners can predict how stormwater will behave and identify potential flooding or erosion risks. This quantitative analysis supports decision-making in designing effective stormwater management systems.

While monitoring water quality in bodies of water is vital for understanding the effects of stormwater on ecosystems, it does not provide a comprehensive picture of how stormwater behaves in a landscape or its management. Evaluating land use planning is important for long-term stormwater strategies, but it primarily relates to preventing issues rather than directly assessing management strategies. Measuring flood water heights offers valuable insights during storm events, but it is more reactive and does not encompass the broader management techniques that can be employed through modeling and planning.