Low Impact Development Manual for Michigan - OSEH - University ...

Ford Rouge Plant cistern
Vertical storage
A vertical storage container is a structure designed to
hold a large volume of stormwater drained from a large
impervious area and is the largest of the capture reuse
containers. The use of these structures is a function of
drainage area and water needs. Vertical structures are
best used for intensive irrigation needs or even fire
suppression requirements, and should be designed by
a licensed professional. These storage systems can be
integrated into commercial sites where water needs
may be high.
Storage beneath structure
Stormwater runoff can be stored below ground under
pavement and landscaped surfaces through the use
of structural plastic storage units and can supplement
onsite irrigation needs. These structures can provide
large storage volumes without the need for additional
structural support from the building.
Designing a capture reuse system in which the storage
unit is underground is best used in institutional or
commercial settings. This type of subsurface storage is
larger, more elaborate, typically designed by a licensed
professional, and requires pumps to connect to the irrigation
system.
Applications
Capture reuse containers can be used in urbanized areas
where the need for supplemental onsite irrigation or
other high water use exists. Areas that would benefit
from using a capture reuse container include:
• Parking garage,
• Office building,
• Residential home or building, and
• Other building use (commercial, light industrial,
institutional, etc.).
Vertical storage units for vegetated roof plaza
maintenance are common in Germany
LID Manual for Michigan – Chapter 7 Page 150