What type of infrastructure helps in managing stormwater effectively?

Natural landscapes play a crucial role in managing stormwater effectively due to their inherent characteristics that promote natural water drainage and filtration processes. Vegetation, soil, and topography in these areas work together to absorb rainfall, reduce runoff, and filter pollutants before they can enter larger water bodies. This helps mitigate flooding, replenish groundwater, and maintain water quality.

In contrast, concrete waste dumps, highways without drainage, and vacant land lots tend to exacerbate stormwater management challenges. Concrete surfaces contribute to increased runoff and prevent water absorption, leading to higher flood risks and potential water pollution. While vacant lots may offer some absorption, they generally lack the structured vegetation and soil health that natural landscapes provide, thus making them less effective for comprehensive stormwater management.