BMP Media Storage Calculator
Estimate storage volume in a planter, bioretention cell, amended soil area, or media-based stormwater BMP.
BMP storage includes media void space and optional surface ponding.
BMP Media Storage Calculator
Estimate storage in amended soil, aggregate, or media void space.
Confirm drawdown, vector control, underdrain, overflow, and planting requirements.
What this calculator does
This calculator estimates storage in BMP media and optional surface ponding using footprint area, depth, and void ratio.
Inputs explained
- Media footprint: Plan area of the BMP media.
- Media depth: Depth of amended soil, engineered media, aggregate, or storage layer.
- Void ratio: Fraction of volume that can hold water.
- Surface ponding depth: Optional temporary water storage above the media.
Limitations
Final BMP design should confirm drawdown, planting, underdrain, overflow, freeboard, vector control, and local stormwater manual requirements.
FAQ
What void ratio should I use?
Use the value supported by the BMP material, soil media, aggregate, or local design guidance.
Does this check drawdown time?
No. It estimates volume only. Drawdown must be checked separately based on infiltration, underdrain flow, evapotranspiration, or outlet controls.
Can this be used for planter boxes?
Yes, it can help estimate storage for planter boxes, bioretention cells, and similar media-based BMPs.
Related tools
Need help reviewing this result?
Use this calculator for planning-level checks, then request help if you need a second look at assumptions, units, stormwater criteria, pump sizing, storage volume, or report-ready calculations.