Insights Why the US is upping spending on stormwater management

Water has never been more important – and more dangerous. As climate change worsens, storms are more severe and more frequent, and experts predict this will only get worse. 

A recent Stanford research study shows that increased rainfall due to climate change has caused more than $75 billion in flood damages between 1991-2021. They warn that more than four million residences are vulnerable to flooding after heavy torrential rains and hurricanes.

Sea levels are rising, the world is heating up, and storms are worsening. And the US is upping its stormwater management spending. Here at Atkins, we see this as our opportunity to make a difference.  

The importance of stormwater management

As mega storms become more common, managing stormwater is crucial for cities worldwide. Not only does stormwater management prevent injuries and human life, but it also protects the quality of life. Here are a few reasons why stormwater management is so important. 

• Prevents flooding – When floodwaters breach levees and rivers, floods spill out into low-lying land. This flooding can destroy crops and property and threaten human and animal lives.
• Maintains good water quality – Storms and flooding can damage valuable drinking water, polluting reservoirs and putting human and animal life in jeopardy. 
• Prevents excessive erosion of agricultural land – As we’ve seen recently across the US and in regions as diverse as British Columbia and Pakistan, stormwater can badly damage agrarian land, rendering it unusable. Over time, this leads to erosion and spoils all agricultural potential.
• Protects marine life – One thing we may not always think about after a storm or flood is the local marine life. Unfortunately, as the polluted floodwater recedes into local lakes, rivers, and oceans, it harms and kills marine life. 

Different approaches and technologies for stormwater management

Engineers are constantly developing new solutions for aging stormwater infrastructure. Here are just a few of the different approaches and technologies applied to stormwater management, each with its own challenges.  

Green stormwater infrastructure – Rather than a system of gutters, pipes, and sewers, green stormwater infrastructure absorbs the water where it falls. It uses plant or soil systems, including gravel, permeable pavements, and landscaping, to reduce the flow of water to sewers and prevent surface water.

Green roofs – Similarly, green roofs use a sponge-like material to absorb water and prevent it from entering the sewer system. 

Automated Outlet Structure (AOS) – This patented device replicates natural hydrology during a storm, increasing the ability to absorb rainwater from 20% to 50%. 

Continuous monitoring and adaptive control (CMAC) – Continuous monitoring and adaptive control consists of water sensors and valves connected to the internet, allowing technicians to ensure the water remains below dangerous levels. 

Atkins has been leading the way on many new water projects, including the Truckee River Flood Management Project in Nevada, the Patuxent Water Reclamation Facility, and design and coordination services for the Clark County Water Reclamation District. 

Find a job with Atkins and come and make a difference

The future of our planet depends on water. That’s why Atkins has been designing and building water infrastructure around the world for more than a century - and we need talented professionals to help them tackle ongoing and emerging challenges head-on.

Atkins is part of the AtkinsRéalis Group - a global leader in engineering, procurement, and construction services. We are dedicated to Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I), and if you’ve got the right skills and a passion for delivering excellence, we want you on our team.

As storms increase in frequency and severity, more water engineers, water resources planners, drainage engineers, and senior water managers are in demand. If you want to be part of the solution to these crucial problems, now is the time to get in touch with Atkins. Browse jobs in the water industry, or sign up to the talent community to find out about the latest opportunities in the USA.