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:Recommendations described in this chapter are aimed at preventing these common problems. | :Recommendations described in this chapter are aimed at preventing these common problems. | ||
− | ==Design | + | ==Design phase maintenance considerations== |
Implicit in the design guidance in the previous sections is the fact that many design elements of [[Glossary#B|bioretention]] systems can minimize the maintenance burden and maintain pollutant removal efficiency. Key examples include: limiting drainage area, providing easy site access (''REQUIRED''), providing [[Glossary#P|pre-treatment]] (''REQUIRED''), and utilizing native plantings. | Implicit in the design guidance in the previous sections is the fact that many design elements of [[Glossary#B|bioretention]] systems can minimize the maintenance burden and maintain pollutant removal efficiency. Key examples include: limiting drainage area, providing easy site access (''REQUIRED''), providing [[Glossary#P|pre-treatment]] (''REQUIRED''), and utilizing native plantings. | ||
− | ==Construction | + | ==Construction phase maintenance== |
Proper construction methods and sequencing play a significant role in reducing problems with operation and maintenance (O&M). In particular, with construction of bioretention practices, the most important action for preventing operation and maintenance difficulties is to ensure that the contributing drainage area has been fully stabilized prior to bringing the practice on line. | Proper construction methods and sequencing play a significant role in reducing problems with operation and maintenance (O&M). In particular, with construction of bioretention practices, the most important action for preventing operation and maintenance difficulties is to ensure that the contributing drainage area has been fully stabilized prior to bringing the practice on line. | ||
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{{:BIORETENTION - Construction inspection checklist}} | {{:BIORETENTION - Construction inspection checklist}} | ||
− | ===Post-construction | + | ===Post-construction operation and maintenance=== |
{{alert|A maintenance plan clarifying maintenance responsibility is ''REQUIRED''. Effective long-term operation of bioretention practices necessitates a dedicated and routine maintenance schedule with clear guidelines and schedules. Proper maintenance will not only increase the expected lifespan of the facility but will improve asethetics and property value.|alert-danger}} | {{alert|A maintenance plan clarifying maintenance responsibility is ''REQUIRED''. Effective long-term operation of bioretention practices necessitates a dedicated and routine maintenance schedule with clear guidelines and schedules. Proper maintenance will not only increase the expected lifespan of the facility but will improve asethetics and property value.|alert-danger}} | ||
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:* General maintenance activities and schedule are provided below. | :* General maintenance activities and schedule are provided below. | ||
− | ====Recommended | + | ====Recommended maintenance activities for bioretention areas (Source: adapted from [[References for bioretetnion|EPA]], 1999)==== |
* '''As needed''' | * '''As needed''' | ||
** Prune and weed to maintain appearance | ** Prune and weed to maintain appearance |
The most frequently cited maintenance concern for bioretention is surface and under-drain clogging caused by organic matter, fine silts, hydrocarbons, and algal matter. Common operational problems include:
Implicit in the design guidance in the previous sections is the fact that many design elements of bioretention systems can minimize the maintenance burden and maintain pollutant removal efficiency. Key examples include: limiting drainage area, providing easy site access (REQUIRED), providing pre-treatment (REQUIRED), and utilizing native plantings.
Proper construction methods and sequencing play a significant role in reducing problems with operation and maintenance (O&M). In particular, with construction of bioretention practices, the most important action for preventing operation and maintenance difficulties is to ensure that the contributing drainage area has been fully stabilized prior to bringing the practice on line.
Inspections during construction are needed to ensure that the bioretention practice is built in accordance with the approved design and standards and specifications. Detailed inspection checklists should be used that include sign-offs by qualified individuals at critical stages of construction, to ensure that the contractor’s interpretation of the plan is acceptable to the professional designer. An example construction phase inspection checklist is provided here.
BIORETENTION - Construction inspection checklist
Effective long-term operation of bioretention practices necessitates a dedicated and routine maintenance schedule with clear guidelines and schedules. Proper maintenance will not only increase the expected life span of the facility, but will also improve aesthetics and property value. Some important post-construction considerations are provided below along with RECOMMENDED maintenance standards.