Patent Publication Number: US-11028569-B2

Title: Systems, apparatus, and methods for maintenance of stormwater management systems

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Continuation-in-Part of International Application No. PCT/US2019/059283, filed Oct. 31, 2019, and a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/670,628, filed Oct. 31, 2019, both of which claim the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/753,050, filed Oct. 30, 2018, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates generally to systems, apparatus, and methods for fluid run-off management systems. In particular, this disclosure relates to enhancing efficiency and efficacy of fluid run-off system maintenance. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Fluid run-off systems include systems designed to process rainwater or other fluid run-off and particularly stormwater. Related stormwater management systems known in the art include chamber systems including those available from Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. under the STORMTECH® brand. Such systems are designed primarily for use under parking lots, roadways, and heavy earth loads. 
     STORMTECH® chambers are thermoplastic, injection molded, and formed of polypropylene, polyethylene, or a combination thereof. Such a chamber has an arched cross-section, and is formed to have a long, narrow configuration with an advantageously compact footprint that optimizes use of space. The arch-shaped chamber defines an open bottom. The chamber is installed and placed on crushed stone or other porous medium, which constitutes a floor of the chamber underlying the arch. The chamber may be formed to include corrugations, which may be advantageously shaped and configured to accommodate efficient stormwater or fluid run-off management and debris collection. One or more chambers include an inlet configured to connect to a stormwater collection system, which may include one or more drain basins that receive fluid run-off from a parking lot, roof, or street. The one or more chambers are designed to distribute collected stormwater into the ground. 
     During a storm, stormwater or rainwater run-off enters the chamber from the one or more drain basins, and in some system configurations, may exit the chamber by flowing through a conduit connecting the chamber to another system component, such as a basin or another chamber. By way of example, a chamber-type stormwater management system may include an array of chambers buried in crushed stone. The chambers may be connected in parallel or in series. 
     Stormwater carries debris and solid contaminants that can pass into and through basins, traps, and filters of conventional stormwater management systems. Stormwater may include suspended solids, including dirt, sand, organic debris such as leaves, paper, and plastic. Stormwater management system chambers such as the STORMTECH® chambers are configured to receive stormwater and allow debris to settle to a bottom of the chamber before the stormwater is released into the ground. 
     Related stormwater management systems known in the art have been developed that prevent some debris and solid contaminants from reaching the chambers. For example, some chamber-type stormwater management systems are configured to divert surface stormwater to a solids retention system, and then into the array of chambers so that an amount of debris and solid contaminants that enter the one or chambers connected to the system is minimized. Solids suspended or entrained in the stormwater are retained by the solids retention system using a combination of settling and filtering actions. When stormwater inflow exceeds a capacity of the solids retention system, the water rises in the diverter to an overflow point at which water flows through a bypass line to the chamber array. Such systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,991,734 to Smith et al., titled Solids retention in stormwater system, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
     In another example, related stormwater management systems known in the art may include a subsystem by which stormwater first flows to a primary row of chambers dedicated to capturing a large amount of debris. The primary chamber is called an isolator row in a stormwater management system provided by Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. The isolator row chamber is encased in a geotextile mesh or filter fabric forming a fine mesh made of any suitable now known or later developed material. Other chambers in the system may also be encased in a geotextile mesh or filter fabric forming a fine mesh made of any suitable material. The filter fabric encases the chamber, interposing the chamber and the crushed stone floor. Debris and solid contaminants have been found to locally mask and block exit points in the filter fabric, impeding outflow of fluid or water from the chamber into the ground. 
     Accordingly, maintenance is required to ensure optimal functionality of chambers, whether they are isolator row chambers, other chambers in an isolator row system, chambers in a system without an isolator row, or chambers in systems with or without other means of debris and solid contaminant collection. Debris is typically manually removed from an interior of a chamber using a device configured to jet water into and through an interior of the chamber to force debris and fluid out of the chamber for collection by vacuum. In particular, jetvac systems use a high pressure water nozzle to propel water through a length of a chamber to suspend and remove sediment. The high pressure spray from the nozzle causes the sediment to exit the chamber into, for example, a connected basin wherein the collected sediment is collected by vacuuming. The jetvac system and similar cleaning devices can snag, tear, or otherwise disrupt the filter fabric material, damaging an efficacy and functionality of the chamber. Accordingly, systems have been designed to protect a floor of the chamber. For example, some systems include a multi-layer mat as an additional component used to protect the filter fabric material during a cleaning and maintenance process. 
     Related chambers known in the art and used in chamber-type stormwater management systems such as those available from Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc., under the STORMTECH® brand, include end caps that attach to, and form a closed end of, the chambers. The ends of the chambers are capped to prevent entry of gravel, earth, or other particulates that would disrupt the filter and drainage functionality of the chamber. The chamber end cap may be formed to include a conduit or pipe stub extending therethrough and defining a channel connecting an interior of the chamber to an exterior thereof. An example end cap and chamber configuration is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 7,237,981 to Vitarelli, titled End cap having integral pipe stub for use with stormwater chamber, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     Vitarelli discloses a detachable end cap for a molded plastic stormwater chamber with an integrally welded pipe stub. The stub cantilevers outwardly from an exterior surface of the end cap for connection to a line that carries fluid to or from the chamber. The end cap may be formed of polyethylene, for example, for use with a polypropylene chamber. 
     Vitarelli discloses an end cap having a convex exterior or dome shaped, which is preferred over planar or flat end caps. Vitarelli discloses ensuring proper fit of the dome shaped end cap to a chamber using flared or flange portions mating with an end of the chamber to close off the chamber and prevent entry of undesired matter. 
     SUMMARY 
     A need has been recognized for further enhancing ease of chamber maintenance in chamber-type stormwater management systems. A need has been recognized for a method and configuration that enhances chamber cleaning efficacy to ensure that an interior of chambers is clear of debris that blocks outflow and downward dispersion of fluid from the chamber. It has been found that debris becomes lodged and packed on the back or interior side of the dome shaped, flared end cap. The debris is not easily removed using conventional maintenance techniques including jetting and vacuuming. Additionally, nozzles and other components of jetting and cleaning devices have been found to become lodged and caught on an interior side of the end cap when being extracted from the chamber through a chamber outlet or pipe stub attached to the end cap. Solutions are disclosed including systems, apparatus, and methods that allow the debris to be removed from the chamber during jetting, and prevent debris from collecting on an interior surface side of an end cap of the chamber. 
     In an embodiment, a ramp apparatus may be provided that is attachable to an interior surface of an end cap of a chamber of a stormwater management system. In this configuration, fluid and solid materials may exit an interior of the chamber by traversing the ramp and passing through an exit defined by the end cap of the chamber. In an embodiment, the ramp may be attached to the end cap interior surface and left in place during chamber operation. The ramp may be configured to have a shape, form, and profile that is non-obtrusive and does not significantly impede or diminish chamber function. Rather, the ramp may be configured to improve chamber function over time by enhancing outflow of solid debris that would otherwise collect at an end of the chamber and block fluid outflow and inflow during operation, and prevent outflow of fluid and solids during maintenance. In an alternative embodiment, the ramp may be configured for retrofitting on an interior of, for example, removable end caps. Time savings and costs savings are achieved by preventing clogs in inlets of chambers and achieving substantially complete removal of debris contained therein. 
     An embodiment may include a ramp useful for chamber-type stormwater management systems, and the ramp may include an inclined surface including a first end and a second end. The ramp may be configured to connect to a chamber end cap having a stub pipe centrally disposed therethrough. The ramp may be connected to the stub pipe at the second end of the ramp, a ramp surface inclined to form a slope rising from the first end to the second end. In an embodiment, the apparatus may include support feet. The support feet may be directly connected to the first end of the ramp to provide support to the first end while the second end may be supported by the stub pipe to which the ramp is attached or fitted. In an embodiment, a width of the support feet may extend equal to or beyond a width of a bottom of a chamber to which the chamber end cap is fixed. 
     In an embodiment, a ramp and end cap system may include a ramp having an inclined surface. The ramp may include a first end and a second end configured to connect to a chamber end cap. The chamber end cap may be configured for use in a chamber-type stormwater management system. The chamber end cap has an interior surface to which the ramp may be connected, either directly, or by way of a stub pipe passing through the end cap. An interior surface of the end cap faces an interior of a chamber enclosure formed by the end cap when connected to a chamber. In an embodiment of a ramp and end cap system, the ramp may include support feet disposed a first end thereof. A ramp surface inclines from the first end to a second end, which may be connected to the end cap, for example, at a stub pipe attached thereto. In an embodiment, a stub pipe may be formed to have a cylindrical shape. The stub pipe has a first end and a second end. The second end may be configured to extend within a chamber enclosure formed by a chamber connected to the end cap. In an embodiment, the ramp may be configured to conform to a shape of the stub pipe. In an embodiment, the ramp may be fitted directly to the stub pipe, and may be configured to form-fit to a portion of the periphery of the stub pipe. In an embodiment, the ramp may be configured to conform to a periphery at the first end of the stub pipe. In an embodiment, the ramp may include a width that is less than a width of a bottom of a chamber to which an end cap connected to the ramp is attached. In an embodiment, the ramp may be formed of polypropylene. In another embodiment, the ramp may be formed of high density polyethylene. In another embodiment, the ramp may be formed of a material selected from the group including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. 
     In an embodiment, a process useful for forming a ramp and chamber end cap system includes providing a ramp having a first end and a second end, and a ramp surface configured to incline from the first end to the second end, the ramp surface formed to enhance flowability of fluid and passage of debris, the ramp configured to connect to a chamber end cap of a chamber-type stormwater management system. In an embodiment, methods include providing a chamber end cap including a stub pipe; and attaching or fitting the ramp to a chamber end cap. In an embodiment, methods may include providing a chamber useful for stormwater management systems; and attaching the ramp and end cap system to the chamber. In an embodiment, methods include providing a support member attached to or extending from the ramp, the support member configured to support the ramp in operation. 
     In another embodiment, a stormwater management system for containing and filtering runoff may be provided. The stormwater management system may include at least one stormwater chamber configured for placement underground. The stormwater chamber may be configured to store runoff and may extend between a first end cap with at least one opening and a second end cap. The stormwater chamber may include at least one of an open-bottom chamber having a side wall with an arch-shaped, round, elliptical, or polygonal cross-section, or a cylindrical, corrugated pipe. The stormwater management system may also include a flared end ramp configured to receive runoff through the at least one opening in the first end cap to guide the runoff into the stormwater chamber. An outlet end of the flared end ramp may be configured to distribute sediment across a width of the stormwater chamber. The stormwater management system may also include a filtration fabric configured to be situated beneath at least a portion of the open bottom of the stormwater chamber. The filtration fabric may be configured to capture sediment from the runoff in the stormwater chamber while the runoff flows out of the stormwater chamber. 
     In a further embodiment, a stormwater management system for containing and filtering runoff may be provided. The stormwater management system may include an inlet apparatus configured to receive runoff from a surface-level drain. The inlet apparatus may include at least one of an elevated bypass manifold or an overflow weir. The stormwater management system may also include a first stormwater chamber configured for placement underground to store runoff, the first stormwater chamber extending between a first end cap with at least one opening and a second end cap. The first stormwater chamber may include at least one of an open-bottom chamber having a side wall with an arch-shaped, round, elliptical, or polygonal cross-section, or a cylindrical, corrugated pipe. The stormwater management system may also include a flared end ramp configured to receive the runoff through the at least one opening in the first end cap of the first stormwater chamber to guide the runoff into the first stormwater chamber. An outlet end of the flared end ramp may be configured to distribute sediment across a width of the first stormwater chamber. The stormwater management system may also include an inlet pipe configured to extend between, and to fluidly connect, the inlet apparatus with an inlet end of the flared end ramp. The stormwater management system may also include a filtration fabric configured to be situated beneath at least a portion of the open bottom of the first stormwater chamber. The filtration fabric may be configured to capture sediment from the runoff in the first stormwater chamber while the runoff flows out of the first stormwater chamber. The stormwater management system may also include a non-woven geotextile fabric configured to cover the first end cap and at least a portion of an exterior surface of the first stormwater chamber. The stormwater management system may also include at least one additional stormwater chamber arranged side-by-side with the first stormwater chamber to form an array of stormwater chambers. The array of stormwater chambers may be fluidly connected via the inlet apparatus and may be configured to receive the runoff from the inlet apparatus and to disperse filtered runoff into at least one of the earth or an underground drainage structure. 
     In yet another embodiment, a flared end ramp for managing flow of material into a stormwater chamber may be provided. The flared end ramp may include an inlet end configured for connection with a pipe, a side wall of the flared end ramp having a rounded profile at the inlet end. The flared end ramp may also include an outlet end configured for placement within the stormwater chamber. The flared end ramp may also include an inclined surface extending between the inlet end and the outlet end of the flared end ramp and configured to deliver material from the pipe into the stormwater chamber. The outlet end of the flared end ramp may have a larger width than the inlet end of the flared end ramp such that the inclined surface is angled laterally outward from the inlet end toward the outlet end. The stormwater chamber may be an open-bottom chamber or a cylindrical pipe. 
     In a further embodiment, a flared end ramp and end cap apparatus for a stormwater chamber may be provided. The apparatus may include a flared end ramp having an inlet end configured for connection with a pipe, an outlet end configured for placement within the stormwater chamber, and an inclined surface extending between the inlet end of the flared end ramp and the outlet end of the flared end ramp. The inclined surface may be configured to deliver material from the pipe into the stormwater chamber. The apparatus may also include a stormwater chamber end cap having an interior surface configured to delimit a chamber enclosure formed by the stormwater chamber and the end cap. The stormwater chamber may be an open-bottom chamber or a cylindrical pipe. 
     Additional features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed embodiments. The features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be realized and attained by the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are examples and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments as claimed. 
     The accompanying drawings constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments as set forth in the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  depicts a schematic of an exemplary stormwater management system, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  depicts inlet ends of a stormwater chamber array of the stormwater management system of  FIG. 1 , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3A  depicts a side plan view of a stormwater chamber of the stormwater management system of  FIG. 1 , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3B  depicts an enlarged view of an inlet end of the stormwater chamber of  FIG. 3A , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4A  depicts an exemplary underdrain for a stormwater management system, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 4B and 4C  depict cross-sectional views of the exemplary underdrain as indicated in  FIG. 4A , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5A  depicts a plan view of an outlet end of an exemplary stormwater chamber configured with a flared end ramp, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5B  depicts a perspective overhead view of an exemplary inlet end cap of the stormwater chamber of  FIG. 5A , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5C  depicts a perspective overhead view of the flared end ramp and inlet end cap of the stormwater chamber of  FIG. 5A , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5D  depicts a perspective overhead view of the stormwater chamber of  FIG. 5A , including the flared end ramp and inlet end cap of  FIG. 5C , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5E  depicts a perspective overhead view of another exemplary flared end ramp and inlet end cap of the stormwater chamber of  FIG. 5A , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5F  depicts a perspective bottom view of the stormwater chamber of  FIG. 5A , including the flared end ramp and inlet end cap of  FIG. 5E , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  depicts a flow diagram of an exemplary process for forming a flared end ramp and stormwater chamber inlet end cap system, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 7A-7E  depict another exemplary flared end ramp, consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8A  depicts another exemplary stormwater management system with the flared end ramp of  FIGS. 7A-7E , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8B  depicts an interior view of the stormwater management system of  FIG. 8A , consistent with various embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. Also, the words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and “including,” and other similar forms are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items, or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It should also be noted that as used in the present disclosure and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     A solution may be provided by embodiments disclosed herein to the recognized need for further enhancing ease of chamber maintenance in chamber-type stormwater management systems, for methods that enhance chamber cleaning efficacy. In particular, apparatuses and methods in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may enable effective cleaning of chamber-type stormwater management systems for removing cleaning equipment and sediment and debris. Solutions are disclosed that may include systems, apparatus, and methods that, inter alia, prevent debris from collecting on an interior surface side of an end cap of the chamber. 
     In various embodiments, a ramp apparatus may be provided that is constructed and arranged to attach to, or be placed within, a chamber useful for a chamber-type stormwater management system. In particular, the ramp may be constructed and arranged to attach to, or be placed within, an interior surface of an end cap of a chamber of a stormwater management system. In this configuration, fluid and solid materials may exit an interior of the chamber by traversing the ramp and passing through an exit defined by the end cap of the chamber. For example, the ramp may be left in place during use of the stormwater system may be available for periodic cleaning. 
     The ramp apparatus may be configured to improve chamber function over time, and may have a shape, form, and profile that is non-obtrusive and does not frustrate chamber function. For example, the ramp apparatus may provide an inclined surface from a ground on which the chamber is positioned to an exit passage at an end of the chamber. The ramp apparatus may be shaped to guide fluid and debris through the exit and away from the portions of the chamber interior at which debris and sediment that otherwise collects in related art systems, such as at the end cap interior around the exit of the chamber. 
     In various embodiments, the ramp may be configured for retrofitting on an interior of, for example, removable end caps to form a ramp and chamber end cap system. Stormwater management systems having a ramp apparatus in accordance with various embodiments may prevent clogs in inlets of chambers and enhance cleaning effectiveness and efficiency. 
       FIG. 1  depicts a top plan view of an exemplary stormwater management system  100 . System  100  may include an array  102  of stormwater chambers  110  arranged side-by-side in a row.  FIG. 2  depicts a view of the stormwater chamber array  102  showing the inlet ends of the stormwater chambers. In the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 1 , array  102  may include a first stormwater chamber  110  and additional stormwater chambers  110   a - 110   i , all of which may have similar shapes and dimensions. However, any suitable number of stormwater chambers may be utilized with system  100 . Each stormwater chamber of array  102  may be an open-bottom chamber with a side wall having a round or polygonal cross-section; in various embodiments, the side wall of one or more stormwater chambers of array  102  may be perforated. The stormwater chambers of array  102  may be corrugated in various embodiments and may be constructed of plastic (e.g., polypropylene, HDPE, LDPE, PVC), metal, and/or any other suitable material. The stormwater chambers of array  102  may each include an inlet end cap  112  and an outlet end cap  114  at its two respective ends. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the chamber array  102  (including the first stormwater chamber  110 ) may be configured for placement beneath the surface  280  of the earth (e.g., under an automobile parking lot) within a layer of water permeable media  284 , which may include crushed stone, gravel, round stone, and/or slag. Fill material  282  may fill the space between the surface  280  and the top of the water permeable media  284 . In some embodiments, no spacing is required between two adjacent chambers when the chamber array  102  is installed underground. Alternatively, a gap  204   b  may be provided between two adjacent chambers. 
     The stormwater chambers of array  102  may be configured to receive and temporarily store rainwater and other fluids (referred to herein as “runoff”) from one or more surface level drains. Over time, the chambers may disperse the runoff stored therein by percolation into the surrounding water permeable media  284  through the open bottoms of the chambers. In some embodiments, one or more stormwater chambers in array  102  may be configured to provide between 10 ft 3  and 150 ft 3  of chamber storage space for receiving the runoff, although persons of ordinary skill will understand that stormwater chambers having a storage volume greater than 150 ft 3  or less than 10 ft 3  may additionally or alternatively be used with system  100 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 1 , stormwater management system  100  may include a subterranean inlet apparatus  140  configured to receive the runoff from one or more surface drains, such as a combination of spaced-part catch basins interconnected by buried pipes. In some embodiments, runoff from the surface drains may flow through one or more settling devices before entering inlet apparatus  140 , in order to settle out solids and floating matter. Inlet apparatus  140  may optionally include a diverter  141  configured to direct the received runoff into the first stormwater chamber  110  in the chamber array  102 . As discussed below, a single layer filtration fabric  130  may be placed beneath the open-bottom of the stormwater chamber  110  in order to capture and filter out sediment and other media from the runoff as the runoff flows out of the chamber. In various embodiments, filtration fabric  130  may be formed from a single layer of a woven geotextile fabric, such as a woven polypropylene material. Advantageously, providing filtration fabric  130  to capture sediment may protect the water permeable media  284  surrounding the stormwater chamber from sediment accumulation, which can slow or altogether halt the percolation of the filtered runoff into the earth. Additionally, filtration fabric  130  may provide scour protection for the underlying ground, including water permeable media  284 . In some embodiments, fabric  130  may cover the entire open-bottom of stormwater chamber  110 ; alternatively, fabric  130  may cover a portion of the open-bottom of stormwater chamber  110 , such as a section adjacent to the inlet end cap  112 . In some embodiments, a single continuous piece of filtration fabric  130  may extend beneath the entire stormwater chamber array  102 . Alternatively, one or more chambers  110  in the array  102  may have separate pieces of filtration fabric  130 . 
     In some embodiments, when the first stormwater chamber  110  is full, or otherwise unable to receive additional runoff, diverter  141  may direct runoff to an inlet manifold  142  for delivery into one or more additional stormwater chambers  110   a - 110   i  of the chamber array  102 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3A , diverter  141  may include an elevated bypass manifold  344  and/or an overflow weir  347  that may create a differential between the first stormwater chamber  110  and the rest of the chamber array  102 , thus allowing chamber  110  and filtration fabric  130  to settle and filter the received runoff. Returning to  FIG. 1 , at least one of the additional chambers  110   a - 110   i  may include a single layer filtration fabric  132  that is similarly configured as filtration fabric  130 . In alternative embodiments, the additional chambers  110   a - 110   i  may not have a filtration fabric. Optionally, one or more stormwater chambers in array  102  may include an outflow pipe  150  configured to discharge runoff from the chambers at a predetermined rate via an outlet control structure  152  (which may include, e.g., a fluid valve). The outlet may discharge runoff to a municipal storm sewer, pond, watercourse, or other receiving point via an underground drainage structure. 
     In alternative embodiments, one or more cylindrical pipes may be implemented within stormwater management system  100  instead of open-bottom chamber  110 . For example, array  102  may include one or more corrugated pipes configured for placement underground for drainage and transportation of runoff. Optionally, the corrugated pipes of array  102  may include perforations along some or all of their respective longitudinal lengths, which may allow the gradual percolation of runoff into the surrounding water permeable media  284 . Pipes of stormwater management system  100  may be constructed of plastic (e.g., polypropylene, HDPE, LDPE, PVC), metal, and/or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, filtration fabric  130  may be placed beneath a corrugated pipe of array  102  to filter the runoff released from the pipe. Additionally, or alternatively, filtration fabric  130  may line some or all of the interior or exterior surface of a corrugated pipe of array  102 , so as to filter the runoff within the pipe before the runoff is released from the pipe. However, in some embodiments, a corrugated pipe may be provided in array  102  without a corresponding filtration fabric. 
       FIG. 3A  depicts a side plan view of the first stormwater chamber  110  of stormwater management system  100 .  FIG. 3B  depicts an enlarged view of a portion of the stormwater chamber  110  near the inlet end cap  112 . As shown in  FIG. 3A , a non-woven geotextile fabric  316  may cover the outer surface  313  of the stormwater chamber  110  to protect the chamber and extend its service life. For example, fabric  316  may cover the entire outer surface  313  of the chamber, including inlet end cap  112  and/or outlet end cap  114 . In some embodiments, stormwater management system  100  may include an inspection port  346  allowing for inspection and maintenance of the subterraneous components of system  100 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , an inlet pipe  345  (e.g., a stub pipe) may be provided to fluidly connect the inlet apparatus  140  to the stormwater chamber  110 . An interior end  345   b  of the inlet pipe may connect to a flared end ramp  320  that is positioned, at least partially, within the stormwater chamber  110  and that is angled downwards from the inlet pipe to convey the runoff away from the inlet end cap  112  and further into the chamber  110 . In some embodiments, the inlet pipe  345  may extend through an opening in the inlet end cap and connect with an inlet end  321  of the flared end ramp. In these embodiments, flared end ramp  320  may be situated entirely within stormwater chamber  110 . Alternatively, the inlet end  321  of the flared end ramp may be situated within the opening in the inlet end cap  112  or external to the stormwater chamber  110  (i.e., to the left of inlet end cap  112  in  FIG. 3B ). In such embodiments, the flared end ramp  320  may extend through an opening in the inlet end cap  112  and into the stormwater chamber  110 . As discussed in detail below, the inlet end  321  of the flared end ramp may have a larger width than an outlet end  323  of the flared end ramp. As a result, the flared end ramp  320  may receive runoff from inlet pipe  345  (which may have a much smaller cross-section than chamber  110 ) and distribute the runoff across the width of the chamber  110 . For example, the outlet end  323  of the flared end ramp may extend across the entire width of stormwater chamber  110  and may abut the chamber&#39;s inner surface  311  in some embodiments. Advantageously, this configuration may enable the flared end ramp  320  to prevent sediment in the runoff from accumulating around the inlet end cap  112  by distributing the runoff (and the sediment contained therein) away from the chamber&#39;s inlet end and across the entire width of the chamber. 
     Flared end ramp  320  may include at least one support foot  324  attached to a bottom portion of the ramp at or near the outlet end  322 . The at least one support foot  324  may extend laterally from the flared end ramp  320  to form a wide structure configured to support the ramp. In the embodiment of  FIG. 3B , filtration fabric  130  may pass beneath the flared end ramp  320  (including the at least one support foot  324 ), as well as the inlet end cap  112  and the interior end  345   b  of the inlet pipe. This placement may ensure that any runoff that leaks or splashes while flowing between the inlet pipe and the flared end ramp is still filtered by the fabric. Alternatively, the end of the filtration fabric  130  (i.e., the left end of fabric  130  in  FIG. 3B ) may be placed at any other suitable location relative to the inlet end cap  112  and flared end ramp  320 . 
       FIG. 4A  depicts an underdrain  454  for an exemplary stormwater management system  400 .  FIGS. 4B and 4C  depict cross-sectional views of different portions of the underdrain  454 , as indicated in  FIG. 4A . In the example of  FIGS. 4A-4C , the stormwater management system may include stormwater chambers  410   a ,  410   b , and  410   c , each of which may have a filtration fabric  430   a ,  430   b , and  430   c , respectively, placed beneath it. However, persons of ordinary skill will understand that any suitable number of stormwater chambers and filtration fabrics may be employed consistent with the present disclosure. In the example shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C , the filtration fabrics may be larger in area than the open-bottoms of the stormwater chambers, such that the fabrics may extend outward beyond the edges of the chambers. For example, filtration fabric  430   c  in  FIG. 4B  extends to the right beyond the right-most edge of chamber  410   c . Advantageously, the large area of the filtration fabric may ensure that the entire open-bottom of the stormwater chamber is covered by the filtration fabric in order to maximize filtration of the runoff received within the chamber. 
     In addition to an outflow pipe  450 , filtered runoff from chambers  410   a - 410   c  may be dispersed into water permeable media  284  through the open bottoms of the chambers and collected in underdrain  454  for removal to a receiving point. As shown in  FIGS. 4B and 4C , underdrain  454  may be located within the layer of water permeable media  284  and beneath (i.e., at a lower position than) the stormwater chambers and filtration fabrics. 
       FIG. 5A  shows a plan view of an inlet end of a stormwater chamber  510  configured with a flared end ramp  520  in accordance with various embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 5A  shows a stormwater management system  500 , including an inlet end cap  512  and flared end ramp  520  connected to a stormwater chamber  510  configured for stormwater management. Stormwater chamber  510  may be connected to the inlet end cap  512 , which may have an interior surface  512   b  facing an interior of the stormwater chamber to form an enclosure when positioned on the ground and/or when installed underground. 
       FIG. 5A  shows an interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap  512 . Flared end ramp  520  may be connected to the end cap interior surface  512   b  by way of a stub pipe (not shown). The stub pipe may be constructed and arranged to provide a passageway from an interior of the stormwater chamber  510  to an exterior thereof. The stormwater chamber  510  may be of any suitable size and form, and the flared end ramp  520  may be sized and shaped to a particular chamber size or form, and a particular stub pipe size and form. 
     The flared end ramp  520  shown in  FIG. 5A  shows an advantageous configuration wherein the ramp  520  inclines from a first bottom end (i.e., the outlet end) upwards toward a second top end (i.e., the inlet end), relative to a bottom of the connected stormwater chamber  510 . The flared end ramp  520  may be formed to surround a portion of the periphery of the “interior” end of the stub pipe at the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap. A surface of the flared end ramp  520  may be formed to facilitate effective and rapid passage of fluid and materials through the interior end of the stub pipe to enter the stormwater chamber  510 . 
     Flared end ramp  520  may take any suitable shape and form that provides an inclined surface extending from a bottom of a chamber enclosure interior to a fluid inlet thereof formed by a stub pipe of the inlet end cap. In an embodiment, the flared end ramp  520  may be formed of polypropylene or high density polyethylene. In alternative embodiments, the ramp  520  may be formed of materials selected from the group of materials including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and other like now known or later developed materials. 
     Flared end ramp  520  may be fastened to the stub pipe at an end thereof that directly connects to the interior of the stormwater chamber enclosure. The stub pipe may be formed by any now known or later developed methods and materials and configured for fluid delivery. The stub pipe connected to the flared end ramp  520  shown in  FIG. 5A  may have a cylindrical shape. The flared end ramp  520  may be fastened to the stub pipe by any now known or later developed suitable mechanisms, materials, and methods. In an alternative embodiment, the flared end ramp  520  may be attached directly to the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap, or may be attached directly to both the stub pipe and the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap. 
       FIG. 5B  shows a perspective overhead view of a stormwater chamber inlet end cap  512  including a stub pipe  545  extending through an opening defined in the inlet end cap. Inlet end cap  512  may be dome shaped and flared, and configured to connect to an open end of the stormwater chamber. A first end  545   a  of the stub pipe  545  extends away from an exterior side surface (not shown) of the inlet end cap, while a second end  545   b  of the stub pipe  545  extends away from the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap. 
       FIG. 5C  shows a perspective overhead view of a flared end ramp and stormwater chamber inlet end cap apparatus in accordance with various embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 5C  shows a ramp and end cap apparatus  501  including inlet end cap  512  and a flared end ramp  520  connected thereto. The flared end ramp  520  may be configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap. Accordingly, debris and solid contaminants may be guided up the flared end ramp  520  and through the passageway defined by the stub pipe  545  during maintenance and cleaning. Flared end ramp  520  may prevent the debris and solid contaminants from collecting at the end cap interior surface  512   b , and may guide the debris and solid contaminants along with fluid through an exit from the interior of the stormwater chamber provided by the stub pipe  545 . Additionally, a nozzle or other component of a jetvac system or another chamber maintenance device will not become lodged and caught on an interior of the end cap. 
       FIG. 5D  shows a perspective overhead view of stormwater management system  500 , in accordance with various embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 5D  shows an assembled flared end ramp, stormwater chamber, and inlet end cap system  500 . Stormwater management system  500  may include a stormwater chamber  510  with the inlet end cap and flared end ramp apparatus  501  connected thereto. 
       FIG. 5D  shows an exterior surface  512   a  of the inlet end cap, and a stub pipe  545 . The stub pipe  545  may include a first end  545   a  extending from the exterior surface  512   a  of the inlet end cap. The stub pipe  545  may extend transversely through the inlet end cap, with a second, interior end  545   b  extending away from an interior surface (not shown) of the inlet end cap and communicating with a flared end ramp  520  in an interior of the stormwater chamber  510 . The stub pipe  545  may be welded, for example, at the interface of the stub pipe with the inlet end cap exterior surface  512   a.    
       FIG. 5E  shows a perspective overhead view of a ramp and chamber end cap in accordance with various embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 5E  shows an alternative flared end ramp and inlet end cap apparatus  501   a , which may be similarly configured as apparatus  501  shown in  FIG. 5C .  FIG. 5E  shows a ramp and end cap apparatus  501   a  including an inlet end cap  512  and a flared end ramp  520  connected thereto. The flared end ramp  520  may be configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap. Accordingly, debris and solid contaminants are guided up the ramp and through the passageway defined by the stub pipe  545  during maintenance and cleaning. The flared end ramp  520  of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5E  may include supports or feet  524 . 
     The supports  524  may be configured as shown in  FIG. 5F  to extend beyond a width of the stormwater chamber  510 , and underneath bottom edges of sides of the stormwater chamber to which the ramp and end cap apparatus  501  is connected.  FIG. 5F  shows a stormwater management system  500  of an embodiment from a bottom perspective view. 
     In particular,  FIG. 5F  shows a ramp and end cap apparatus  501  including an inlet end cap  512  and a flared end ramp  520  connected thereto by way of a stub pipe  545 . The flared end ramp  520  may be configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface  512   b  of the inlet end cap. Accordingly, debris and solid contaminants are guided up the ramp and through the passageway defined by the stub pipe  545  during maintenance and cleaning. The flared end ramp  520  of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5F  includes supports or feet  524 . 
       FIG. 5F  shows an interior surface  511  of the stormwater chamber  510 . The feet  524  of the flared end ramp  520  may be configured to extend under the sides of the stormwater chamber  510 . Accordingly, the flared end ramp  520  may be configured to lift relative to the ground to an extent limited by the contact between the feet  524  and the stormwater chamber walls. Additionally, or alternatively, the feet  524  may be constructed and arranged to provide support against the ground or surface upon which the fluid management system  500  rests. 
       FIG. 6  shows a process of forming a stormwater chamber, flared end ramp, and inlet end cap system in accordance with various embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 6  shows a method  600  including a step S 610  of providing a flared end ramp having a first end and a second end, and a ramp surface configured to incline from the first end to the second end. The ramp surface may be formed to enhance flowability of fluid and passage of debris. For example, the flared end ramp may include a curved surface meeting and conforming with a shape of an end of a cylindrical stub pipe connected to an inlet end cap. 
       FIG. 6  shows step S 620  of forming feet attached to the flared end ramp. The feet may include a same material as the flared end ramp, or a different material, formed to provide a support structure configured to support the flared end ramp in operation. For example, a flared end ramp positioned in a stormwater management system may rest on a ground on which the stormwater chamber is installed. A first, lower end (i.e., an outlet end) of the inclined ramp may rest on the feet or support structure. In an embodiment, the feet may be configured to have a width equal to or larger than a width of a bottom of the stormwater chamber. The feet may be configured to be positioned beneath the stormwater chamber wall for additional support. Thus, structural distortion caused by movement of the flared end ramp connected to the stormwater chamber during operation may be minimized. 
     Methods including a step S 630  of providing an inlet end cap useful for stormwater management systems. The inlet end cap may include a stub pipe passing through a central portion of the inlet end cap. Methods include a step S 640  of attaching or fitting the flared end ramp to the inlet end cap. The flared end ramp has a first end, a second end, and a ramp surface inclined from the first end to the second toward the pipe stub when connected thereto. 
     The flared end ramp may be configured and arranged to prevent debris and solid contaminants from collecting and becoming lodged at the interior surface of the inlet end cap. In an embodiment, the flared end ramp may be connected to an interior surface of the inlet end cap. In another embodiment, the flared end ramp may be connected to the inlet end cap by way of a third member, for example, attached or fitted to a stub pipe to which the inlet end cap is attached. 
     The chamber end cap may be configured to attach to the stormwater chamber and form a chamber enclosure. In an embodiment, the end cap may be welded to the stormwater chamber.  FIG. 6  shows a step S 650  of attaching the flared end ramp and end cap apparatus to the stormwater chamber. The flared end ramp and end cap apparatus is configured to connect to the stormwater chamber to form an enclosure containing the flared end ramp. A bottom of the flared end ramp is in facing relation to a ground on which the stormwater chamber is placed. A top surface of the ramp surface is in facing relation to an interior top surface of the stormwater chamber. The ramp surface may be curved or otherwise shaped and fitted to the stub pipe to form a smooth, inclined transition from a chamber interior into a stub pipe, the bottom of which is located above a bottom or lower portion of the stormwater chamber. 
       FIGS. 7A-7E  illustrate another exemplary flared end ramp  720  configured for use in a stormwater management system. For example, flared end ramp  720  may be configured to manage flow of material, such as runoff, into a stormwater chamber. Flared end ramp  720  may include an inlet end  721  configured to receive runoff from an inlet pipe. In some embodiments, ramp side wall  723  may have a rounded profile at the inlet end  721  to form an inlet opening  727 . For example,  FIG. 7D  illustrates an embodiment in which side wall  723  has an annular profile at inlet end  721  to form the inlet opening, and  FIG. 7E  illustrates an alternative embodiment in which side wall  723  has a semi-circular profile at inlet end  721  to form the inlet opening. An end of an inlet pipe may be received within the inlet opening  727 , which may conform to the end of the inlet pipe to form a fluid-tight connection. Additionally, or alternatively, the inlet pipe and flared end ramp  720  may be connected via one or more fixation means, such as welding, adhesive, and/or a mechanical connector. 
     In some embodiments, the diameter of inlet opening  727  of the flared end ramp may be designed to receive an inlet pipe having a known outer diameter, such that the inlet pipe may fit securely within the inlet opening  727 . In some embodiments, inlet opening  727  of the flared end ramp may have a diameter of between 6.0 inches and 60.0 inches. For example, inlet opening  727  may have a diameter of approximately 18 inches to receive an inlet pipe with an 18-inch diameter, or a diameter of approximately 24 inches to receive an inlet pipe with a 24-inch diameter. 
     Flared end ramp  720  may also include an outlet end  722  at an opposite end of the ramp from the inlet end  721 , and an inclined surface  725  extending between the inlet end  721  and outlet end  722 . As shown in  FIG. 7A , inclined surface  725  may have a rounded profile near the inlet end  721 , similar to the profile of the inlet opening  727 . The inclined surface  725  may have a different profile at the outlet end  722 , including a flattened bottom portion  725   a  and first and second upstanding side portions  725   b ,  725   c . In some embodiments, outlet end  722  may have a larger width than inlet end  721 ; specifically, inclined surface  725  may have a greater width at the outlet end  722  and a smaller width at the inlet end  721 . As a result, ramp side walls  723  may be angled laterally outward (i.e., may extend away from the center of the inclined surface  725 ) from the inlet end  721  toward the outlet end  722 . 
     Flared end ramp  720  may include at least one support foot  724  configured to support the flared end ramp on a support surface. As shown in  FIG. 7B , the at least one support foot  724  may be connected to a bottom surface of the flared end ramp at, or in close proximity to, the outlet end  722  by known methods such as welding, adhesive, and/or a mechanical connector. In the embodiments depicted in  FIGS. 7A-7E , the flared end ramp may include a single support foot  724  extending laterally, and continuously, between the side walls  723   a  and  723   b  at the outlet end of the ramp. In alternative embodiments, the flared end ramp may include at least two support feet, a first of which may extend laterally from first side wall  723   a  and a second of which may extend laterally from second side wall  723   b . As shown in  FIG. 7C , the at least one support foot  724  extends laterally from the side walls of the flared end ramp. As a result, a distance between support foot edges  724   a  and  724   b  may form the widest portion of the flared end ramp  720 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7D and 7E , flared end ramp  720  may include one or more drainage grooves formed in the inclined surface  725  to promote flow of runoff from the inlet end  721  towards the outlet end  722 . For example, the ramp may include a drainage groove  726   a  extending along the center or midline of the inclined surface  725 . Additionally, or alternatively, the ramp may include one or more drainage grooves originating near the center of the inclined surface at the inlet end  721 , and extending laterally outward towards the outlet end  722 . For example, the flared end ramp may include drainage grooves  726   b  and  726   c  extending from the center of the inclined surface  725  near the inlet end of the ramp towards the first side wall  723   a  and the second side wall  723   b , respectively, at the outlet end of the ramp. Advantageously, drainage groove  726   a  may promote runoff flow along a midline of the ramp and into the center of the stormwater chamber, while drainage grooves  726   b  and  726   c  may guide runoff away from the center of the stormwater chamber and towards the chamber side walls. 
       FIG. 8A  illustrates an exterior view of another exemplary stormwater management system  800 , which may include the flared end ramp  720 .  FIG. 8B  illustrates an interior view of stormwater management system  800 . Stormwater management system  800  may have a similar configuration as systems  100 ,  400 , and  500  discussed herein, and may include a stormwater chamber  810  with an inlet end cap  812 , an inlet pipe  845  configured to convey runoff from an inlet apparatus (not shown) to flared end ramp  720 , and a filtration fabric  830  covering the open-bottom of stormwater chamber  810  to filter runoff percolating from the chamber into the earth. In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 8A and 8B , inlet pipe  845  may pass through the inlet end cap  812  and into the stormwater chamber  810 , where the inlet pipe may connect with the inlet end  721  of the flared end ramp; accordingly, flared end ramp  720  may be wholly contained within stormwater chamber  810 . Alternatively, inlet end  721  of the flared end ramp may be situated within the opening formed in the inlet end cap  812  or at a location outside of the stormwater chamber. In such embodiments, the flared end ramp  720  may pass through the opening in the inlet end cap and into the stormwater chamber. 
     Flared end ramp  720  may be configured to convey runoff away from the inlet end cap  812  and further into the stormwater chamber  810 . In some embodiments, the outlet end  722  of the flared end ramp may rest on the filtration fabric  830  and may have a large width, relative to the inlet end  721 , such that the flared end ramp may distribute sediment across the width of the stormwater chamber. In some embodiments, flared end ramp  720  may include at least one support foot  724  having a larger width than the stormwater chamber  810 ; this may cause the at least one support foot  724  to extend out of the stormwater chamber  810  through the open-bottom of the chamber, as shown in  FIG. 8A . Advantageously, the contact between the at least one support foot  724  and the bottom edge of the stormwater chamber  810  may secure the flared end ramp and stormwater chamber together against relative movement. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one support foot  724  may have a small height (i.e., the vertical dimension in  FIGS. 8A and 8B ), such as a height of less than one inch. For example, the at least one support foot  724  may have a height of approximately 0.25 inches. Advantageously, the small height of the support foot  724  allows the outlet end of the inclined surface  725  to rest on the bottom of the stormwater chamber (i.e., on the filtration fabric  830 ), allowing smooth, non-turbulent flow of runoff from the flared end ramp  720  into the stormwater chamber  810  and allowing sediment in the runoff to settle more quickly for faster filtration. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the at least one support foot  724  may have a width (i.e., the distance between support foot edges  724   a  and  724   b ) that is equal to or larger than the width of the stormwater chamber  810 . This may allow the support foot to engage the bottom edge of the chamber to secure the ramp and chamber together. In some embodiments, the at least one support foot  724  may have a width of between 25.0 inches and 125.0 inches, such as a width of approximately 50 inches, 78 inches, or 100 inches. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 8A and 8B , inlet pipe  845  may pass through an opening in inlet end cap  812  such that flared end ramp  720  is not in contact with the inlet end cap. For example, a distance of between 0.5 and 3.0 inches (e.g., a distance of between 1.0 and 2.0 inches) may be provided between inlet end cap  812  and flared end ramp  720 . Inlet pipe  845  may be secured to inlet end cap  812 , such as by welding. Additionally, or alternatively, inlet pipe  845  may be secured to the flared end ramp  720 , such as by welding the inlet opening  727  of the ramp directly to an outer surface of the inlet pipe or by a mechanical connector (e.g., a threaded rod and nut). 
     In various embodiments, filtration fabric  130 ,  430 ,  830  (referred to hereafter as filtration fabric  130 ) may be formed from a single layer of a woven geotextile fabric, such as a woven polypropylene material. Advantageously, implementing filtration fabric  130  with stormwater management system  100  has been found to increase the filtration rate of runoff that is stored in the stormwater chamber, while also providing high rates of sedimental removal efficency. For example, material properties of an exemplary filtration fabric  130  and prior filtration fabric SKAPS SW315 (referred to hereafter as “SW315,” which is a woven geotextile having two layers) were tested by the Applicant to evaluate the suitability of each fabric for use with the exemplary stormwater management system  100 . The properties of both fabrics are provided below: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Filtration 
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Fabric 130 
                 SW315 Fabric 
               
               
                 Property 
                   
                 (MARV 1 ) 
                 (MARV 1 ) 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Grab Tensile Strength 
                 325 
                 lbs. 
                 315 
                 lbs. 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                 Grab Elongation 
                 15% 
                 15% 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 CBR Puncture Resistance 
                 1124 
                 lbs. 
                 1000 
                 lbs. 
               
               
                 Weight 
                 8 
                 oz/yd 2   
                 6 
                 oz/yd 2   
               
               
                 Trapezoidal Tear Strength 
                 200 
                 lbs. 
                 120 
                 lbs. 
               
               
                 Apparent Opening Size (AOS) 
                 0.425 
                 mm 
                 0.425 
                 mm 
               
               
                 Permittivity 
                 0.15 
                 sec −1   
                 0.05 
                 sec −1   
               
               
                 Hydraulic loading rate 
                 4.1 
                 gpm/ft 2   
                 2.5 
                 gpm/ft 2   
               
               
                   
               
               
                   1 Minimum Average Roll Values (MARV) is calculated as the average minus two standard deviations. Statistically, it yields approximately 97.5% degree of confidence that any samples taken from quality assurance testing will meet or exceed the values described above. 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     As shown above, filtration fabric  130  was found to have a greater tear strength and puncture resistance than the prior two-layer fabric, indicating that filtration fabric  130  is more resilient against tearing, compared to the prior fabric, when used for runoff filtration in a stormwater chamber. Additionally, filtration fabric  130  was also found to have a greater permittivity, which is a measure of the rate at which water flows through a material. Specifically, filtration fabric  130  was found to have a permittivity of 0.15 sec −1 , while the prior fabric was found to have a lower permittivity of 0.05 sec −1 . This finding indicates that filtration fabric  130  may filter runoff at a greater rate than the prior fabric, allowing runoff to be released from the stormwater chamber  110  more quickly and minimizing the likelihood that the capacity of stormwater chamber  110  will be exceeded by additional runoff. This conclusion was borne out by the measurement of each fabric&#39;s hydraulic loading rate, which is a measure of the volume of water that can pass through a given area of media during a set duration of time. Filtration fabric  130  was found to have a hydraulic loading rate of 4.1 gpm/ft 2 , compared to the prior fabric&#39;s hydraulic loading rate of 2.5 gpm/ft 2 . This finding suggests that the single-layer filtration fabric  130  filters runoff at a greater rate than the prior, two-layer fabric of the same size. 
     As another example, the filtration efficacy of stormwater management system  100 , including filtration fabric  130 , was evaluated according to the protocols of the New Jersey Corporation for Advanced Technology&#39;s (NJCAT&#39;s) Technology Verification Program. Specifically, two stormwater chambers were installed underground, each chamber having a similar configuration as stormwater chamber  110  depicted in  FIG. 3A . A total of 16 sediment removal efficiency testing runs were completed in which runoff having a controlled flow rate and a controlled influent sediment concentration was supplied to the stormwater chambers. 
     The results from all 16 runs were used to calculate the overall cumulative removal efficiency of the stormwater management system  100 . The results of this test indicated that stormwater management system  100  has a sediment removal rate of 81.2%. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) test protocol requires a sediment removal rate of at least 80% to verify the efficiency of a stormwater filtration system; a sediment filtration rate of 80% is also the industry standard for evaluating sediment filtration efficiency. See N.J. Admin. Code § 7:8-5.5 (2016). Accordingly, stormwater management system  100  not only filters runoff at a faster rate than prior technologies but also maintains highly efficient runoff filtration that exceeds the applicable legal and industry standards. 
     The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to precise forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of the embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed embodiments. For example, while certain components have been described as being coupled to one another, such components may be integrated with one another or distributed in any suitable fashion. 
     Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations based on the present disclosure. The elements in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as nonexclusive. Further, the steps of the disclosed methods can be modified in any manner, including reordering steps and/or inserting or deleting steps. 
     The features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is intended that the appended claims cover all systems and methods falling within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. As used herein, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more.” Similarly, the use of a plural term does not necessarily denote a plurality unless it is unambiguous in the given context. Words such as “and” or “or” mean “and/or” unless specifically directed otherwise. Further, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur from studying the present disclosure, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and, accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the disclosure. 
     Other embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as example only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims.