The Carver County Water Management Organization (CCWMO) and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) require volume reduction and treatment of storm runoff from all new impervious surfaces associated with the Carver Elementary and Ironwood Park. A stormwater reuse system was constructed to address the volume reduction requirements. The system consists of a pond to provide treatment and storage of runoff, a pump station, and piping to convey the reuse water to the irrigation areas around the school and park.
The pump station has a control system that monitors flow, level, and pressure, which adjusts the pumping rate to meet the varying demand. The station includes a treatment structure and a self-flushing filter to remove particles greater than 80 microns. This provides water quality suitable for our irrigation systems. Another significant benefit of the reuse of stormwater for irrigation is the reduction in demand on the City’s potable water system. With this system, at no time will the City’s treated water be used to irrigate areas around Carver Elementary or Ironwood Park.
In order for the system to manage stormwater pond levels during heavy rain events, the irrigation system may activate. This means that you might notice the irrigation system running during or after rain events; even running in the middle of the day and appear to be wasteful. However, the system has been specifically designed this way to manage stormwater pond levels to help control runoff and prevent erosion.
If you have any questions regarding the City’s stormwater reuse system, please contact Brian Skok, Public Services Director, at 952-448-8736 or [email protected].