Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

A swale is defined as a shallow, vegetated channel specifically designed for managing water runoff. This type of structure is often used in landscape design and stormwater management systems to facilitate the natural flow of water and promote infiltration. The vegetation in a swale plays a crucial role in absorbing water, filtering pollutants, and reducing the speed of runoff, which helps prevent erosion and sedimentation downstream.

Swales are particularly effective in urban areas where impervious surfaces can lead to increased runoff and water quality issues. By using a landscape feature instead of traditional drainage systems, swales contribute to sustainable water management practices, helping to mimic natural hydrology and reduce the environmental impact of stormwater.

Other options, while related to water management, do not accurately describe what a swale is. Stormwater storage tanks, portable filtration systems, and large flood control bodies serve different purposes in the realm of water management and do not fit the definition and function of a swale.