What are the latest tools and technologies for stormwater modeling and analysis in land development?

1 GIS-based platforms

One of the latest tools for stormwater modeling and analysis is the integration of geographic information systems (GIS) with hydrologic and hydraulic models. GIS-based platforms allow you to use spatial data, such as elevation, land use, soil type, and drainage network, to create and calibrate stormwater models, as well as to visualize and analyze the results. GIS-based platforms can also help you to perform scenario analysis, sensitivity analysis, and optimization analysis, as well as to generate reports and maps. Some examples of GIS-based platforms for stormwater modeling and analysis are SWMM, HEC-RAS, and MIKE.

2 Cloud computing

Another latest technology for stormwater modeling and analysis is cloud computing, which enables you to access and run stormwater models on remote servers via the internet. Cloud computing can offer several benefits for stormwater modeling and analysis, such as faster processing speed, higher storage capacity, lower hardware and software costs, and easier collaboration and data sharing. Cloud computing can also allow you to use advanced features, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics, to improve the accuracy and efficiency of stormwater modeling and analysis. Some examples of cloud computing services for stormwater modeling and analysis are HydroCloud, Hydrologic Engineering Center's Data Storage System (HEC-DSS), and HydroShare.

3 Low-impact development

A third latest tool for stormwater modeling and analysis is low-impact development (LID), which is a design approach that aims to mimic the natural hydrology of the site and reduce the negative effects of stormwater runoff. LID involves using various techniques, such as rain gardens, green roofs, permeable pavements, rain barrels, and bioswales, to capture, infiltrate, filter, and reuse stormwater on the site, rather than conveying it to the storm sewer system. LID can help you to achieve multiple benefits for stormwater modeling and analysis, such as reducing peak flows, increasing groundwater recharge, enhancing water quality, and creating aesthetic and ecological value. Some examples of LID tools for stormwater modeling and analysis are LID-PAYS, LID-BMPs, and L-THIA.

4 Remote sensing

A fourth latest technology for stormwater modeling and analysis is remote sensing, which is the collection and interpretation of information about the earth's surface and atmosphere using sensors mounted on satellites, aircraft, drones, or other platforms. Remote sensing can provide you with valuable data for stormwater modeling and analysis, such as precipitation, evapotranspiration, soil moisture, land cover, imperviousness, and flood extent. Remote sensing can also help you to monitor and evaluate the performance and impact of stormwater management practices over time and space. Some examples of remote sensing data sources and tools for stormwater modeling and analysis are NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM), USGS's National Land Cover Database (NLCD), and Google Earth Engine.

5 Citizen science

A fifth latest tool for stormwater modeling and analysis is citizen science, which is the involvement of the public in scientific research and data collection. Citizen science can help you to supplement and validate the data from other sources, such as GIS, cloud computing, and remote sensing, as well as to engage and educate the community about stormwater issues and solutions. Citizen science can also help you to leverage the power of social media, mobile apps, and online platforms to collect and share stormwater data and feedback. Some examples of citizen science projects and tools for stormwater modeling and analysis are iNaturalist, CrowdHydrology, and WikiWatershed.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?