What do bioswales primarily help to achieve?

Bioswales are specifically designed to manage and filter stormwater runoff. They are landscape elements frequently employed in urban environments to improve water quality and reduce the volume of stormwater entering drainage systems. By using vegetation, soil, and natural processes, bioswales allow water to flow slowly through the system, promoting the absorption and filtration of pollutants before they reach natural water bodies.

The design of a bioswale includes features that help to capture excess rainwater, allowing it to percolate through the soil and facilitating natural biological processes that break down contaminants. This function is critical for mitigating the impact of urbanization, which often increases impervious surfaces and leads to greater amounts of runoff entering water systems.

While bioswales can also enhance the aesthetics of an area and contribute to biodiversity, their primary purpose is to manage stormwater effectively. Thus, the focus on stormwater management underscores their importance in environmental sustainability and urban planning.