How does vegetation help in stormwater management?

Vegetation plays a crucial role in stormwater management primarily by improving infiltration, reducing runoff velocity, and filtering pollutants. When it comes to managing stormwater, plants and trees absorb water through their roots and help to retain it in the soil. This process enhances infiltration – the ability of water to seep into the ground rather than flow over the surface, which can lead to flooding and erosion.

Additionally, vegetation helps reduce runoff velocity as it slows down rainfall reaching the ground. Leaves, stems, and soil act as barriers that capture raindrops, allowing water to spread out and soak into the ground more effectively. This reduced velocity minimizes the risk of soil erosion and helps maintain water quality.

Moreover, vegetation also acts as a natural filter for pollutants. As water moves over or through the land, pollutants can attach to soil particles or be absorbed by plants. This natural filtration helps manage contaminants before they enter waterways.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the full contribution of vegetation to stormwater management. While promoting evaporation is an important process in the water cycle, it does not encompass the comprehensive role that plants play in reducing runoff and filtering pollutants. Providing solely aesthetic value overlooks the critical functional benefits of vegetation in environmental management. The assertion that vegetation creates more runoff