Seasonal pre-development conditions of a proposed low impact development neighbourhood

Abstract This study presents the four years’ seasonal baseline hydrological condition of a proposed low impact development neighbourhood in Brantford, Ontario. A comprehensive monitoring scheme including on-site infiltration tests, topographic survey, and instream and groundwater monitoring was conducted on the site and in the adjacent Whitemans Creek and Lewis Drain. The streams’ high flows and storm responses are not included in the current study due to limited accessibility. Results show that sandy soil with a high infiltration rate on the site infiltrates the majority of the precipitation and supports the installation of permeable pavements. Surface water and groundwater interaction was observed at the Municipal Drain. Throughout the summer, the Creek has clear flow conditions for the majority of the time and baseflow accounts for a large proportion of flows in the Creek. During the monitoring period, water quality parameters in the Creek satisfied the CCME guidelines for the protection of aquatic life. The use of permeable pavements on the site will help to maintain pre-development water balance. As neighbourhood-level LID is rarely directly demonstrated, we encourage further investigations once the site has been developed.