The Benefits of Infiltration Trenches

Infiltration trenches are the ideal stormwater management where space is limited

Infiltration trenches are shallow excavations filled with gravel to create an underground reservoir for stormwater runoff. The runoff water percolates through bottom and sides of the trench into the surrounding subsoil. They are used at the ground surface to collect overland flows. Thanks to their narrow size, they can be selected in areas where space is limited, allowing total peak discharge of small storms. Infiltration trenches can be constructed in urban and suburban areas, along car parks, along railway tracks and roads, at construction site. As hydrocarbon pollution is heavily and constantly carried by surface runoff, this water management solution should include pre-treatment of this infiltration in order not to damage the aquifers. Infiltration trenches decrease the flood risk and provide groundwater recharge while being well integrated in the environment. It is key to infiltrate clean stormwater directly.