Shifting paradigms in stormwater management – hydrosocial relations and stormwater hydrocitizenship

ABSTRACT Stormwater management has recently begun a paradigm shift away from traditional top-down approaches in response to climatic changes, urbanization, and regulatory pressures. This paradigm shift is characterized by two key developments: the implementation of additional decentralized green infrastructure, and the practice of individuals managing stormwater from their privately-owned property. This transition involves redefining who is responsible for managing stormwater and the infrastructure used within stormwater management. Using insights from two urban watersheds, Watershed 263, Baltimore, MD and Watts Branch, Prince George’s County, MD and Washington, DC, where this shift is underway, we assess changes in the hydrosocial relationships underpinning this paradigm shift including the emergence of stormwater hydrocitizenship. We investigate stormwater hydrocitizenship as the role and responsibilities of individuals within stormwater management. We focus on the role of government at several levels, drawing insights from the concept of biopower. Our findings suggest that this paradigm shift and the emergence of a stormwater hydrocitizenship remains embedded in top-down governance, which in turn creates significant tension among different stakeholders. Arising from this critical analysis, we seek to promote a reimagining of how, where, and who manages stormwater towards more sustainable, resilient, and equitable outcomes.