Species traits, substrates and stormwater grates: improving the health of urban trees by using polluted stormwater as a resource

Abstract

This project uses plant traits to select existing and novel tree species for glasshouse studies to quantify the uptake of stormwater and polluting nutrients as well as drought tolerance in stormwater street tree systems. In collaboration with water industry and tree nursery industry partners and a syndicate of local councils, the project aims to install passive stormwater street tree systems into existing suburbs and new greenfield developments in Melbourne. Models will be used to design and predict the performance of these stormwater street tree systems, and the glasshouse/field research outputs are expected to refine the leading industry and government relevant urban catchment model.