Environmental Studies Resource Guide: Earth Day 2025

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Earth Day 2025 Events at HCC

April 22 - Biofuels presentation

April 25 - Campus cleanup at Lot O Bioswales

More info coming soon!

Bioswales

Bioretention areas are landscaped features designed to treat stormwater runoff. They are commonly located in parking lot islands or within small pockets in urban areas. Surface runoff is directed into shallow, landscaped depressions designed to incorporate many of the pollutant removal methods that operate in forested ecosystems. Collected runoff is cooled off, nutrients are absorbed by the plants, and the treated water then percolates into the ground. During storms, excess water is directed to the local stream.

Micro-bioretention swales capture and treat runoff by passing it through a mixture of sand, soil, and organic matter. In HCC's Lot O, the filtered stormwater is partially filtered into the soil and directed to the stormwater conveyance system. The collected stormwater in these swales is designed to drain within 24-48 hours after a rain event. The plants in the swale enhance the nutrient (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) and pollutant uptake. Ultimately, the stormwater runoff from HCC Parking Lot O is discharged to a tributary of Antietam Creek, which is impaired by fecal bacteria, low dissolved oxygen, nutrients, and sediments. The reduction of sediment, nutrients, and other runoff pollution by the micro-bioretention swales will contribute to the overall protection of water quality in Antietam Creek.

The native plants in this bioretention structure are adapted to local conditions, need little maintenance or water, and need no fertilizer or pesticides. Native plants create an important habitat for butterflies, bees, birds, and other wildlife.

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