Many ponds planned for urban runoff control are also designed to provide recreational facilities. They are often surrounded by walking trails and picnic areas complete with gazebos and outdoor grills. The ponds also can be used by nonmotorized boats like canoes. This natural setting creates a home for a variety of birds and animals that homeowners find appealing. Fountains, often included in plans, also add to the aesthetic qualities of the pond.
Effective landscaping can do much to improve urban runoff systems.
Banks of urban runoff storage areas and drainage ditches should be graded smoothly into adjacent areas where feasible. Steep slopes should be protected against erosion by stabilization techniques, such as gabions, rip-rap, or other practices that detract as little as possible from the natural setting. Sediment accumulation and waterlogging of otherwise usable land areas can be avoided by the use of proper design, construction, and operation techniques. Ponds used for urban runoff control can be spared from excessive sediment accumulation by the use of forebays for silt collection. The amount of silt transported can be reduced by directing runoff through vegetated areas or specially designed runoff filters.