SKOKIE, Ill.--As stormwater management systems increasingly focus on using strategies that emphasize conservation and use of natural on-site methods, pervious concrete pavements are becoming a popular solution.

A new publication from the Portland Cement Association (PCA), "Hydrologic Design of Pervious Concrete," provides an overview and discussion of hydrologic design techniques. Pervious concrete is recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a best management practice for stormwater management. However, the hydrologic performance of the pavement is the key parameter for using it effectively.

The publication considers the relationship between runoff characteristics, material characteristics, and site geometry. It also provides guidelines for the preliminary selection of appropriate pervious concrete characteristics for specific applications and environments.

"Hydrologic Design of Pervious Concrete" can provide civil engineers, landscape architects, and other design professionals guidance in the selection and design of an appropriate pervious concrete pavement system.

It can also aid permit granting agencies in the review and acceptance of proposed pavement systems. Developers and owners interested in a more complete technical review of pervious concrete pavement systems will also find the publication valuable.