Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

The significance of buffer zones in stormwater management primarily lies in their ability to filter pollutants from runoff before it reaches water bodies. These areas, often comprised of vegetation such as grass, shrubs, and trees, play a crucial role in capturing sediment, nutrients, and other contaminants that may be present in stormwater runoff.

When rain falls, stormwater can pick up various pollutants from impervious surfaces like roads and parking lots. As this water moves through the buffer zone, the plants and soil help to slow down the flow, allowing for increased infiltration and absorption of harmful substances. This process not only improves water quality by reducing the volume of pollutants entering nearby rivers, lakes, or streams but also enhances the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.

While buffer zones can also provide recreational value, aid in evaporation, or affect drainage rates, their primary ecological function in terms of stormwater management is the filtration and reduction of pollutants, making this a critical aspect of protecting water quality in surrounding environments.