Ionic materials comprise the major exhaust pollutants of vehicles. Trees were able to remove large quantities of each type of material. Increased Water Run-Off. Commercial development substantially changes the topography of an area. The effect of the vegetation and soil is to slow the movement of water and to provide an opportunity for water to enter the ground.
Development removes trees and other vegetation that soften the impact of rain.
As a result, rain hits the ground with greater force and compacts the soil surface. In addition, buildings, parking lots, and other impervious structures reduce percolation of water into the soil and promote run-off. The result is large volumes of water entering the storm water system or creeks in a short period of time. Capturing run-off water is a very expensive proposition. A goal during development should be to minimize the amount of impervious area and capture water at the point of impact.