Create Safer Neighborhoods with Stormwater Retention & Detention Tanks 

Every major flood leaves behind devastation—damaged homes, flooded roads, overwhelmed infrastructure, and disrupted lives. Stormwater runoff, which occurs when rainwater flows over roads, roofs, and parking lots instead of being absorbed into the ground, is a growing issue fueled by urban sprawl, aging infrastructure, and climate change.

Unchecked stormwater runoff doesn’t just lead to flooding. It pollutes waterways with oil and chemicals, erodes landscapes, and weakens critical infrastructure. The impact isn’t just financial; it’s personal—families displaced, businesses struggling to recover, and ecosystems left in ruins. Managing stormwater effectively isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential.

That’s where stormwater retention and detention tanks come in. These systems are designed to store excess water during heavy rains, either temporarily or permanently, and release it in a controlled way. This prevents flooding, protects infrastructure, and improves water quality.

Let’s break down how each of these stormwater management solution works, why they’re important, and how they can create safer, more sustainable communities.

Why Stormwater Management Can’t Wait

Floods have become more frequent and severe, especially in urban areas where concrete and asphalt prevent water from soaking into the ground. Unfortunately, scientists predict a 26% increase in severe flooding events by 2050. Here are just a few examples of recent stormwater disasters:

• Hurricane Ida (2021): Overwhelmed stormwater systems in New York City caused subway stations and homes to flood, resulting in 92 deaths and $75 billion in damages.
• Hurricane Harvey (2017): With 60 inches of rain, Texas faced $125 billion in damages, with roads and bridges destroyed.
• Ellicott City, Maryland (2016 & 2018): Intense rainfall caused catastrophic flooding twice in two years, leading to significant losses and disruption.

These events aren’t outliers—they’re warnings. As storms intensify due to climate change, aging stormwater systems can’t keep up. Investing in modern stormwater management solutions, like retention and detention tanks, is critical for protecting our communities.

Retention and detention tanks are pretty similar to stormwater retention and detention ponds. One holds water (wet system) while the other drains it off (dry system).

What’s the Difference Between Retention and Detention Tanks?

Think of these tanks as the defenders of the stormwater management galaxy. While both help manage runoff, they work differently:

• Retention Tanks (Wet Systems): These tanks collect and permanently store stormwater. The water is either reused (e.g., for irrigation) or absorbed into the ground to replenish aquifers.
• Detention Tanks (Dry Systems): These tanks store water temporarily during heavy rainfall and release it slowly back into the drainage system to prevent flooding.

How Stormwater Retention Tanks Work

Retention tanks are all about conservation and reuse. Here’s how they operate:

• Collection: Rainwater flows into the retention tank from surfaces like roads, roofs, and parking lots.
• Storage: Water is held indefinitely, reducing the amount of runoff entering storm drains.
• Reuse or Infiltration: The stored water is either repurposed for irrigation or industrial use or allowed to seep into the ground to replenish groundwater.

Why Retention Tanks Matter

• Water Conservation: They capture rainwater, reducing the strain on local water supplies.
• Groundwater Recharge: Retention tanks help refill underground water reserves.
• Pollution Control: By preventing runoff from reaching rivers and lakes, they protect aquatic ecosystems.

How Stormwater Detention Tanks Work

Detention tanks focus on controlling water flow during storms. Here’s how they function:

• Collection: Stormwater is directed into the tank.
• Storage: Water is held temporarily, easing the load on drainage systems.
• Controlled Release: Water is gradually released, reducing the risk of downstream flooding.

Why Detention Tanks Are Essential

• Flood Protection: They act as a buffer during heavy rains, giving stormwater management systems time to handle excess water.
• Improved Water Quality: By capturing and holding runoff, detention tanks help filter out pollutants before they reach waterways.
• Space-Saving Design: Detention tanks can be installed underground, making them perfect for urban areas where land is limited.
• Climate Resilience: As storms grow stronger, detention tanks provide scalable solutions to handle increasing runoff.

What Happens If We Do Nothing?

Ignoring stormwater management in the midst of climate change has serious consequences:

• Widespread Flooding: Vulnerable areas face displacement, especially low-income families who often live in flood-prone zones.
• Public Health Risks: Floodwaters carry pollutants and diseases, threatening community health.
• Environmental Harm: Uncontrolled runoff erodes landscapes, destroys habitats, and pollutes water sources.
• Economic Losses: Billions of dollars in damage from preventable flooding strain local and national budgets.

Building a Resilient Future with Retention and Detention Tanks

The good news? Modern stormwater management solutions are more effective than ever. Detention and retention tanks can be paired with green infrastructure like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and green roofs to create even more sustainable systems. These combined solutions not only manage water but also:

• Reduce Urban Heat: Green spaces cool cities naturally.
• Improve Air Quality: Plants and trees filter the air while managing water resources.
• Boost Biodiversity: Green infrastructure provides habitats for wildlife.

Real-World Success Stories

Cities and businesses worldwide are already seeing the benefits of stormwater management tanks:

Jacksonville, Florida: A local IKEA installed a detention system that stores 259,000 cubic feet of runoff, protecting their property from flooding.

Phillip Island, Australia: On-site detention tanks improved water quality and reduced flooding in this densely populated area.

Ellicott City, Maryland: Underground detention tanks now help protect the community from the kind of devastating floods experienced in 2016 and 2018.

Find the Right Stormwater Management Solution with Plastic Mart

Stormwater management doesn’t have to be complicated. At Plastic Mart, we’re here to make it simple. Our wide selection of retention and detention tanks is designed to fit your specific needs, whether you’re managing a residential, commercial, or urban project.

Let’s create safer, more sustainable communities—together. Explore our stormwater management solutions today and take the first step toward protecting your home, business, and environment.