Improving Water Quality by...

PONDING & PERCOLATING PAVEMENT STORMWATER

Bioretention cell

What are Bioretention Cells?

Bioretention cells treat runoff from impervious surfaces such as streets and parking lots. Bioretention cells (biocells) impound and infiltrate runoff from up to 2 acres of drainage area. The sandy soil media used in a bioretention cell filters the runoff. Pollutants are captured and broken down in the soil media by beneficial microbes. Biocells are used where the existing soils lack an adequate percolation rate.

Why Install a Biocell?

Bioretention cells often feature native plants that have deep root systems. These in combination with an engineered rock chamber and perforated tile, allow for the ponding and infiltration of stormwater from large impervious areas of up to 2 acres. This makes this an ideal practice for large impervious areas such as small businesses and their surrounding parking lots, while providing an aesthetically pleasing landscape accent.

Bioretention Cells in the Easter Lake Watershed

Numerous bioretention cells have been integrated throughout the Easter Lake Watershed. Upon entering the Easter Lake Park at the north shore entrance, a large bioretention cell filled with several species of native Milkweed, Aster, Pale Purple Coneflower and Golden Alexander manages all of the stormwater runoff from the parking lot and surrounding impervious surfaces. Two additional bioretention cells on display can be found at City of Des Moines Ewing Park. Most recently, several biocells have been installed along SE 14th St., to help manage stormwater from surrounding businesses before it enters the nearby Yeader Creek tributary.

Do you or your business fall within the Easter Lake Watershed? Find out HERE. As part of the Easter Lake Watershed Project, residents, businesses, and other landowners located within the watershed are eligible for up to 75% cost-share for bioretention cells.