Peer-reviewed studies, case studies, and expert resources supporting biochar's effectiveness in stormwater management.
Research Microbiologist, USDA ARS
Dr. Trippe's laboratory at the Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit in Corvallis, Oregon focuses on biochar effects on soil health and microbial community dynamics. She developed the Pacific Northwest Biochar Atlas, a comprehensive resource for biochar applications.
Contact:
Industry Association & Research Hub
USBI promotes biochar in North America for sustainable food security, improved soil fertility, environment, and climate resilience. Their stormwater resources include technical guidance, case studies, and performance data.
Upcoming:
USBI Biochar Stormwater Guidance Manual (launching soon)
Scientific publications demonstrating biochar's effectiveness in stormwater treatment.
Mohanty et al. (2018) • Science of the Total Environment • Cited by 290+
Comprehensive review demonstrating that biochar has high potential to remove stormwater contaminants and maintain plant health in stormwater treatment systems. The study evaluates biochar's performance across multiple contaminant classes.
Read Full PaperKuoppamäki et al. (2016) • Ecological Engineering • Cited by 127+
Field study demonstrating that biochar-amended substrates significantly reduce stormwater runoff volumes and improve water quality by retaining nutrients and filtering contaminants.
Read Full PaperSTAC Workshop Report (2023) • Contributors include Dr. Kristin Trippe
Multi-stakeholder workshop report examining biochar as a performance-enhancing device for stormwater BMPs, with specific focus on regulatory pathways and implementation strategies.
Download PDFReal-world applications demonstrating biochar's performance in stormwater systems.
Stormwater Filtration System
Wood-based biochar filter removed >97% of copper and zinc from marina runoff, protecting sensitive marine ecosystems.
View Case StudyHigh Flow Rate Filtration
Biochar-based filtration mixtures achieved >95% removal of dissolved and total copper at high flow rates typical of stormwater events.
View Case StudyBiochar-Enhanced BMP
Biochar amendment to infiltration basin improved infiltration rates and contaminant removal in challenging clay soils—similar to Oklahoma conditions.
View Case StudyBioretention applied research project results and implementation guidance.
Download PresentationComprehensive overview of biochar applications in stormwater management systems.
Visit Resource