Stormwater Management

The minor storm system refers to the network of smaller pipes, drains, and localized drainage structures that manage stormwater runoff from smaller rainfall events or areas with lower drainage requirements. It typically handles runoff from regular rainfall events with a shorter duration and lower intensity.

The minor storm system is designed to collect runoff from individual properties, streets, parking lots, and smaller catchment areas. It includes smaller pipes and inlets that mvoe the water to the major system or directly to natural water bodies, such as streams or rivers. 

The minor system helps prevent localized flooding, ensures proper drainage in neighbourhoods, and contributes to overall stormwater management.

The major storm system refers to the primary infrastructure designed to handle larger and more significant storm events. It is made up of larger pipes, channels, detention ponds, and other storage structures capable of managing large volumes of stormwater runoff. The purpose of the major system is to control and move runoff from major storms, typically defined as storms with a return period of 10 to 100 years or more. The return period of a storm is the likelihood of a storm of that size occurring within that specific time frame.

The major storm system is responsible for collecting stormwater from a large catchment area, such as multiple neighbourhoods or a significant portion of the town. It transports the collected runoff to designated retention or detention facilities, which can include large ponds, underground storage, or open channels. This is done by overland flow routes like swales and the road itself. These facilities help to temporarily store the excess stormwater and release it at a controlled rate to prevent downstream flooding and reduce the impact on receiving water bodies.