A stormwater management analysis of Blacksburg, Virginia

Many aspects of managing stormwater runoff were investigated for the Town of Blacksburg, Virginia, that would minimize the costly installation and environmentally damaging impacts of storm sewers as the town urbanizes. These aspects included the technical, political, financial, legal, and administrative approaches for controlling runoff at present levels, and for promoting the restoration of streams and preservation of natural drainage ways. The study used a computer model of the town's drainage system to assess the potential of technical approaches for runoff control and stream restoration. The financial and legal ramifications of a storm drainage user fee were explored in depth as a means to finance drainage improvements that rely on natural means for controlling runoff. Recommendations were presented on how to implement these technical, legal, and financial approaches through the town administration and citizen groups.