Laboratory and Field Studies of Soil Characteristics of Proposed Stormwater Bioinfiltration Sites

Small scale, rapid, tests are needed to quickly inventory soil conditions in areas undergoing planning following natural disasters, or to meet short schedules associated with accelerated construction goals. Field-scale and laboratory studies of local soils in the Tuscaloosa, AL, were conducted to provide insight into the existing soil characteristics at proposed stormwater bioinfiltration sites in areas devastated by severe tornados that will be undergoing reconstruction. Disturbed urban soils have dramatically reduced infiltration rates, usually associated with compaction of the surface soils. Local measurements of the actual infiltration rates can be a very useful tool in identifying problem areas and the need for more careful construction methods. Having accurate infiltration rates are also needed for proper design of stormwater bioinfiltration controls.