Low Impact Development

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-016080",
  "term": "Low Impact Development",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definitions": [
    "1. A sustainable landscaping approach that can be used to replicate or restore natural watershed functions and/or address targeted watershed goals and objectives.\n\n2. A comprehensive stormwater management and site-design technique. Within the LID framework, the goal of any construction project is to design a hydrologically functional site that mimics predevelopment conditions. This is achieved by using design techniques that infiltrate, filter, evaporate, and store runoff close to its source. Rather than rely on costly large-scale conveyance and treatment systems, LID addresses stormwater through a variety of small, cost-effective landscape features located on-site. LID is a versatile approach that can be applied to new development, urban retrofits, and revitalization projects. This design approach incorporates strategic planning with micro-management techniques to achieve environmental protection goals while still allowing for development or infrastructure rehabilitation to occur.\n\n3. Development that is designed to be hydrologically functional by mimicking pre-development hydrology or hydraulic conditions. This is achieved by using design techniques that infiltrate, filter, evaporate, and store runoff close to its source (e.g. bioretention, rain gardens, cisterns, green roofs)\n\n4. More sustainable land development approach that begins with a site planning process that first identifies critical natural resource areas for preservation.\n\n5. Innovative stormwater management practices that mimic a site's pre-development hydrology. LID uses design techniques that reuse runoff and allow it to soak into the soil, helping to protect local water quality.",
    "Innovative stormwater management practices that mimic a site's pre-development hydrology. LID uses design techniques that reuse runoff and allow it to soak into the soil, helping to protect local water quality."
  ],
  "abbreviation": "LID",
  "subject": [
    "Sustainability and green living",
    "Ecosystems"
  ],
  "references": [
    "Greening EPA Glossary",
    "Green Infrastructure Glossary; Green Infrastructure: Glossary of Commonly Used Terms",
    "EPA Stormwater Discharges from Developed Sites; Glossary from Owner/Developer Long Questionnaire; 4/16/2010 DRAFT VERSION Quoted on NAHB website",
    "Adapted from Office of the President Council on Environmental Quality Guidance for Federal Agencies on Sustainable Practices for Designed Landscapes at https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/microsites/ceq/recommendations_on_sustainable_landscaping_practices.pdf",
    "Chesapeake Bay Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/low-impact-development/"
}