Community Stormwater resources
USF's Stormwater Research
Researchers from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at USF are currently conducting research on stormwater systems in the University Area with a focus on improving community knowledge and stormwater quality. This research involves the installation and monitoring of a new stormwater filtration system designed to reduce the inflow of stormwater contaminants to Aaran's Pond. By constructing features that place natural plants and the absorbent material biochar at inflow locations where stormwater enters a pond, these "Biopods" should help to improve stormwater quality by helping to filter out contaminants like excess nitrogen before they enter the pond. While seeking to raise community awareness and knowledge of stormwater issues. USF is also seeking the rich knowledge of local community members to better learn about community concerns, desires, and suggestions, related to stormwater pond redesign. This is an important step towards achieving healthier stormwater, a healthier community, and a healthier environment.
Stormwater information
On the pages below you can find some helpful information designed to explain what exactly stormwater is, why it's important, and what the risks of contaminated stormwater or unhealthy stormwater systems can be. These pages come paired with additional helpful links or resources if you want to learn even more. Additionally, there is some information on the history and function of Aaran's pond as part of the University area's stormwater system alongside some student produced films that highlight resident experiences and the challenges of stormwater redevelopment.
