Would an infiltration facility be considered a good co-located practice if it utilizes infiltration for pollution removal?

An infiltration facility is typically designed to manage stormwater by allowing it to percolate through soil layers, where various physical, chemical, and biological processes help to remove pollutants from the water. When evaluating whether an infiltration facility is a good co-located practice, it is important to consider both its benefits and potential challenges.

While the option selected highlights a concern regarding sediment clogging, which is a valid consideration in the management of infiltration practices, it's essential to recognize the advantages that such facilities can provide in the right conditions. An effective infiltration system can significantly enhance water quality by removing pollutants before they enter groundwater or surface waters, and it can also reduce runoff volume and peak flows.

Additionally, effective management practices, such as regular maintenance and proper design—including sediment traps, pretreatment methods, and careful site selection—can mitigate the risk of clogging. When integrated into stormwater management systems, infiltration facilities can enhance overall performance by promoting groundwater recharge and improving water quality.

Therefore, acknowledging that infiltration facilities can be effective co-located practices due to their pollution removal capabilities is essential. However, successful application requires careful attention to design and maintenance to prevent issues such as sediment buildup from undermining their effectiveness.