Stormwater Low Impact Development (LID)

The purpose of the UTRCA’s Stormwater Low Impact Development (LID) Program is to facilitate the promotion and implementation of stormwater LID in the Upper Thames River watershed, with the goals of:

  • improving water quality, and
  • delaying runoff into the Thames River.

The UTRCA has been involved in implementing LID projects across the watershed, working with developers, municipalities, schools, community organizations, and residents.

What is LID?

LID mimics the natural movement of water in order to manage stormwater (rainwater and urban runoff) close to its source. It seeks to lessen the impacts of increased stormwater runoff and pollution, by using designs and landscape features to infiltrate, filter, retain and slow down runoff.

LID is being used more frequently in Ontario due to its many benefits, including:

  • Provides cost effective stormwater management option
  • Helps to reduce urban flooding
  • Reduces and delays flows into traditional stormwater infrastructure
  • Adapts to local site conditions
  • Improves water quality
  • Improves aesthetics in streams, rivers and neighbourhoods
  • Conserves water and energy
For more information, visit the Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program’s (STEP) Low Impact Development Stormwater Management Planning and Design Guide Wiki page, which is regularly updated with developments and information.