An Evaluation of Planting Soil Mixtures on Bioretention Cell Performance

This project comprised of designing and equipping two bioretention cells on the campus of Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, Michigan to quantify the effectiveness of these structural stormwater best management practices (BMP's). Each of the cells was equipped with soil moisture and temperature sensors, water quality samplers, and flow meters. The purpose of this project is to analyze varying soil compositions and quantify the effectiveness of bioretention cells in storing and treating stormwater runoff through analyzing rain, temperature, soil moisture data, and underdrain discharge for multiple natural and simulated storm events. This paper will present results from collecting natural rainfall data as well as outline future tests that will enable the comparison of soil mixture compositions for efficient and effective water quality and quantity goals. An example of simulated events is also included.