Bioengineered System in Existing Stream Channel

The bioengineered pond and wetland system on the site of the new Federal Medical Center in Devens, Massachusetts successfully combines stormwater quality and discharge control with ecological enhancement. Project designers created a series of three interconnected basins in an existing stream course. These ponds/wetlands are heavily vegetated to take advantage of vegetation's ability to improve water quality, stabilize soils and provide wildlife habitat. Specialized bioengineered, vegetated materials helped establish the vegetation quickly and reliably. The system is designed to regulate stormwater flow for events up to the 100-year storm for a watershed of 21.7 ha (55 acres). This project demonstrates that stormwater management systems can provide their engineering function while also providing ecological benefits, and that site development mitigation activities can indeed improve existing degraded natural resources.