| Description |
The Great Salt Lake (GSL) faces significant challenges due to declining water levels, exacerbated by human activities and a variety of environmental factors. This research explores the potential of Low Impact Development (LID) as a solution to mitigate the impact of urban water use on the GSL's health. LID aims to mimic pre-development hydrology which can reduce stormwater runoff leading to a variety of benefits. LID can also improve the aesthetic value of an area, improve wildlife habitat, and more. To better understand the effects of LID, an analysis of a selected urban watershed in Salt Lake City was completed using the Hydrologic Engineering Center's Hydraulic Modeling System (HEC-HMS). Results indicate that LID implementation can lead to substantial reductions in peak runoff, which is significant to maintain water levels in the GSL. While this study provides valuable insights into the potential of LID, further research is needed to assess its cost-effectiveness, scalability, and suitability for Utah's unique environmental conditions. Overall, Low Impact Development emerges as a promising solution to address the complex challenges facing the GSL and its surrounding watershed. |
