DIY Fact Sheets

Select a Stormwater Practice

If you need help choosing a stormwater practice, answer the question below and pick the appropriate chart.

Q: Does the soil at the proposed location allow water to soak in? (If you’re not sure, so a simple perc test.)

Yes, use the Infiltration Flow Chart.

No, use the Storage Conveyance Flow Chart.

For step-by-step instructions, choose a practice below.

Do-it-yourselfers are encouraged to use the fact sheets listed below to complete their SOAK projects. Each fact sheet includes a list of recommended materials and equipment as well as step-by-step instructions for installation. Before getting started, check out the SOAK Project Steps page for tips on selecting a good location and appropriate stormwater practice for your property.

*Please note this correction: Washed or drainage stone should be used in all practices that call for crushed stone. Crushed stone contains fines that may take up pore space or hasten clogging in infiltration practices.

Dripline Infiltration Trench A dripline infiltration trench collects and infiltrates stormwater from roofs until it soaks into the ground. It helps prevent stormwater from running off of your property.	Driveway Infiltration Trench A driveway infiltration trench collects and infiltrates stormwater from your driveway allowing it to soak into the ground. It helps to reduce stormwater runoff.
Dry Well A dry well collects runoff from gutter downspouts, roof valleys, and other areas where water concentrates and flows. They help to infiltrate runoff and reduce erosion.	Infiltration Steps Infiltration steps slow down and infiltrate runoff on moderate slopes to reduce erosion and define walking paths. They are well-suited for shorefront properties.
Pervious Walkways and Patios Pervious pavers look like traditional pavers, but are able to absorb and store rain and snowmelt to reduce runoff from your property.	Rain Barrel A rain barrel captures rainwater from your roof to reduce runoff from your property and provide you with water for lawns, gardens, and indoor plants touse in dry weather.
Rain Garden A rain garden is a sunken, flat-bottomed garden that uses soils and plants to capture, absorb, and treat stormwater. This helps to reduce stormwater runoff and recharge groundwater.	Vegetated Buffer A buffer is a vegetated area along a waterbody that provides shade, stabilizes slopes, and can help slow down and clean stormwater runoff.
Vegetated Swale A vegetated swale is a shallow channel that slows runoff and directs it to an area where it can infiltrate. Swales use plants to stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, slow the flow, and absorb runoff.	Water Bar A water bar intercepts runoff traveling down moderately steep walkways, paths, gravel driveways, and other areas and diverts it into stable vegetated areas to reduce erosion.