What defines an infiltration basin?

An infiltration basin is specifically designed to allow stormwater runoff to collect in a shallow depression, where it can gradually infiltrate into the ground. This method of managing stormwater helps recharge groundwater supplies and reduce surface runoff, ultimately promoting sustainable water management practices. The key characteristic of an infiltration basin is its open-surface nature, which facilitates the infiltration process by exposing the runoff to the soil beneath.

In the context of stormwater management, infiltration basins serve multiple ecological functions, including improving water quality by filtering pollutants from the runoff as it percolates through the soil, as well as reducing flooding risks by temporarily storing water. The distinction of an infiltration basin is that it is not primarily focused on draining water like a channel or having multiple outlets; instead, it is a dedicated area designed for allowing water to slowly move into the ground, making option C the accurate definition.