What is the primary function of a retention basin?

The primary function of a retention basin is to store stormwater on site. Retention basins are designed to collect and hold stormwater runoff, allowing it to infiltrate into the ground or evaporate over time. This management of stormwater helps to control the quantity of water released into the drainage system or nearby water bodies, ultimately reducing the impact of runoff on local waterways.

While retention basins can contribute to reducing flooding risk by managing stormwater and delaying its discharge into downstream systems, their main purpose is to provide on-site storage. This helps to maintain the hydrology of the area and supports groundwater recharge, which is vital for sustainable water resource management. Enhancing aesthetic value can be a benefit of retention basins, but it is not their primary function. Similarly, they do not inherently increase urban drainage; rather, they serve to mitigate and manage water flow for better drainage outcomes.