detention basin

A detention basin is a specially designed area of land or structure that temporarily holds excess rainwater during heavy storms. Its purpose is to control floodwaters by collecting and slowly releasing runoff, preventing it from overwhelming drainage systems or causing flooding downstream. Once the storm passes and water levels decrease, the basin gradually empties. Detention basins are an essential part of stormwater management, helping to reduce flood risk, protect property, and improve water quality by allowing sediments and pollutants to settle before the water is released into natural waterways.