Stormwater Management and Runoff Effects

Jeff Scott from the Cornell Local Roads Program demonstrates the impact of land use on stormwater runoff. The video explains how different surfaces, from forests to commercial areas, affect water absorption and runoff. Forests absorb most water, while commercial areas with impervious surfaces lead to increased runoff. The demonstration highlights the importance of understanding land use in managing stormwater effectively.

What is the main focus of the stormwater demo presented by Jeff Scott?

• To discuss the importance of local roads

• To demonstrate the effects of land use on wildlife

• To show how impervious surfaces affect runoff

• To explain the benefits of agricultural practices

In the forest category, what primarily happens to the water?

• It evaporates immediately

• It all runs off the surface

• It is mostly absorbed by vegetation and soil

• It is collected in stormwater ponds

What change in the environment is represented by the agricultural category?

• Decrease in impervious surfaces

• Increase in tree density

• Introduction of more water bodies

• Loss of trees and larger vegetation

How does the presence of impervious surfaces in residential areas affect runoff?

• It decreases runoff

• It has no effect on runoff

• It increases runoff

• It redirects runoff to forests

What are examples of impervious surfaces mentioned in the residential category?

• Forests and fields

• Rivers and lakes

• Rooftops and driveways

• Lawns and gardens

In commercial areas, where does most of the runoff go?

• It is collected into drainage systems

• It evaporates into the atmosphere

• It is absorbed by the soil

• It is used for irrigation

What is a common feature of commercial areas that affects runoff?

• Large areas of vegetation

• Extensive water bodies

• Large flats of concrete and pavement

• Numerous small ponds

What is the primary purpose of the stormwater demonstration?

• To promote the use of stormwater ponds

• To show the benefits of impervious surfaces

• To discuss the role of agriculture in water management

• To illustrate the increase in runoff with more impervious surfaces

Which category experiences the least amount of runoff?

• Residential

• Agricultural

• Forest

• Commercial

What happens to the majority of rainfall in commercial areas?

• It is used for agricultural purposes

• It remains on the surface

• It is redirected into stormwater structures

• It is absorbed by vegetation