Urbanization causes fundamental changes in the local hydrologic cycle, mainly increased speed of water movement through the system, and degraded water quality. They are expressed through reduced groundwater recharge, faster and higher storm runoff, and factors that affect aquatic ecosystems, particularly sediment, dissolved solids, and temperature. The resultant problems have encouraged municipalities to reduce negative impacts through storm water management.

Important research on these issues was spearheaded by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) during the early phases of the current environmental revolution. A sampling of titles used for the USGS Circular 601 series indicates the scope of these efforts: Urban Sprawl and Flooding in Southern California (C601-B); Flood Hazard Mapping in Metropolitan Chicago (C601-C); Water as an Urban Resource and Nuisance (C601-D); Sediment Problems in Urban Areas (C601-E); and Extent and Development of Urban Flood Plains (C601-J). Also relevant are Washington...