The Challenge
The Sand River watershed in Aiken, South Carolina, experienced severe erosion due to increased stormwater runoff. This resulted in destabilized riverbanks, pollution from urban runoff, loss of habitats and recreational areas in Hitchcock Woods, and risks to public safety and infrastructure.
In 2017, the Sand River Stormwater Task Force proposed a $22 million plan to capture 58 acre-feet of stormwater through 20 capital improvement projects. However, advancements in real-time control technology prompted a reassessment of the approach.
The Solution
In 2020, the Task Force opted for continuous monitoring and adaptive control (CMAC) systems over the initial passive storage approach. Opti's CMAC system was deployed to manage stormwater through two underground vaults, operating in series with coordinated release. Forecast-based real-time control uses weather forecasts to prepare infrastructure for incoming storms while real-time data from sensors within the system inform optimized stormwater management decisions.
The Results
Commissioned in 2022, the CMAC system delivered significantly improved stormwater management and annual benefits:
- 87% of annual stormwater runoff capture
- 216 MG/yr stormwater captured
- 134 MG/yr stormwater infiltrated
- Erosive peak flow reduction of 60%
These results allow for the revitalization of the Hitchcock Woods recreational area and ensures long-term sustainability for the community.
How It Works
