Project Name: Storm Water Management and Ecology Demonstration Project
Basin: R
Sub-watershed Location: Stream Segment 2304
Sub-watershed Description: The current proposed site is located on the grounds
of Laredo Community College between the Rio Grande/Zacate Creek drainage divide
and the Rio Grande River at approximately 99* 31' 21"W by 27* 30' 32"N.

Lead Entity: Environmental Engineering Division, City of Laredo
Other Participants: Laredo Community College
Funding Source: EPA 319(h) + city match
Amount of Funding: $416,666.67
Project Start Year: 1996
Project Finish Year: 1997

Contact: Raj Guntnur, P.E. - Environmental Manager
         City of Laredo
         1110 Houston St.
         Laredo, Tx. 78042
         tel: (956) 791-7358
         fax: (956) 791-7496
         e-mail: raj@icsi.net

Abstract: In 1996 the City of Laredo submitted an application to the EPA through
TNRCC, which would enable the development of a park showcasing numerous
structural Best Management Practices (BMP).  These BMPs are designed to improve
the quality of st ormwater discharges.  The construction of the BMP's by the
Environmental Engineering Division include a campaign to educate and involve all
citizens on issues that affect and impact nonpoint source pollution.  It will
provide developers and the commu nity with a first hand view of the BMP's
available and their effectiveness in increasing stormwater quality and thus,
address nonpoint source pollution.

The following are BMP's that will be included:

1.  Controls are planned to address overall stormwater quantity and quality by
    establishing bio-retention basins, dry/wet ponds and an artificial wetland.
2.  Unvgetated slopes will be seeded to increase soil stabilization.
3.  Detention spillways with gabions (rock-filled wire-mesh boxes)
4.  Infiltration rock bottoms with gabions
5.  Energy dissipators at outfalls
6.  Sloped drains from bio-retention basins
7.  Porous parking lots.

The demonstration BMP's will be spread throughout the park and tied into an
ecological study area (artificial wetland) which is intended to be used by local
schools as a learning tool.  All BMP's will be accessible from a walking trail
that will be p rovided with signs explaining their function and maintenance
requirements.  The ecological study area will be left undisturbed and will focus
on the benefits of protecting and preserving our resources.

The City hopes the park will serve as a model for future land development
activities throughout the community and South Texas.  As the community becomes
aware of ordinance requirements, the overall stormwater quality is expected to
improve, and thus, take a more active role in addressing nonpoint source
pollution.

Progress to Date:
Category : E