An Analytical Model of Rainfall Interception by Urban Trees

Urban trees are recognized for their capacity in improving air quality, aesthetic values and reducing energy consumption, while their ability to help divert rainfall and reduce urban runoff are often overlooked. This study provides an analytical model on rainwater interception performance of a selection of common urban trees in Metro Vancouver, given a series of climatic and tree characteristics. The model outputs and interface are designed to inform and enhance decision support tools that are used in the development of stormwater management plans and permit applications associated with urban development projects.

A specific goal of this study includes: developing a rainfall interception model with different approaches to deriving model parameters. The rainfall interception model provides useful information to address several aspects of urban stormwater management for different stakeholders. The potential audiences who will benefit from the outcomes of this study are people involved in urban planning and management of stormwater such as city/municipal planners, engineers, developers, and local decision makers.

View full report in the Canadian Water Resources Journal (PDF)