ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a novel approach to improving the pollutant removal efficiency and the reliability of a Vegetative Buffer Strip (VBS) System by using a level spreader (LS). The design of such an LS/VBS system is described and results from a full-scale field test of such a system are summarized. The level spreader is essentially an earthen trench placed on the contour and has a concrete weir spillway on the downslope side of the trench. Thus, the level spreader takes the concept of a VBS one step further by combining it with an infiltration trench and a concrete weir spillway for an enhanced method of stormwater pollution control. A VBS is a stormwater management practice which utilizes a vegetated surface to reduce runoff velocities, allow infiltration, and filter out runoff pollutants. The VBS has been found to be a cost-effective control measure of reducing solids, nutrients, and other pollutants in stormwater runoff.
