Stormwater banking is a concept that allows the capture and storage of stormwater for future use, similar to how water rights are managed in traditional water banking systems. In stormwater banking, entities or municipalities collect and store excess stormwater during wet periods, often in ponds or underground storage systems, and then "bank" it for later use during drier times. This stored water can be used for irrigation, industrial purposes, or to recharge groundwater supplies.
The main idea behind stormwater banking is to create a reserve of water that can offset the demand on conventional water sources, especially in areas facing drought or water scarcity. It can also help manage runoff and reduce the strain on stormwater infrastructure during heavy rain events. Stormwater banking can be part of broader water management strategies that promote sustainability, flood reduction, and more efficient use of available resources.
