Differences between infiltration basins and bioretention basins
Summary of factors that can be used to determine differences between infiltration basins and bioretention basins. This table corresponds with Table 1 in the adjacent flowchart.
Link to this table
| BMP | Typical position in watershed | Treatment scale | Typical storm sizes | Maximum drainage area guidelines | Maximum ponding depth guidelines | Growing medium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infiltration (basin, trench, underground, dry well) | Downgradient of other water quantity or water quality control practices | Development or regional scale control | Less frequent large storm events that exceed capacity of upgradient practices | 50 acres | 4 feet | Native soil |
| Bioretention basin | Located throughout the watershed | Site scale control | Small storms (water quality events) | Typically 5 acres | Ideally 12 inches; can be up to 18 inches with appropriate design and plant selection | Engineered growing medium |