Is It a Storage Problem—or a Control Problem?

Detention design often focuses on storage volume and routing—but the outlet ultimately controls how that storage is used.

Orifices and weirs are the default outlet controls because they are familiar, easy to model, and fit within standard design workflows.

Their use is deeply embedded in detention design practice and stormwater guidance manuals. This makes them a practical and defensible choice.

They can, however, drive larger detention volume, depth, and footprint when considered at the system level.

If the outlet defines how storage is used, expanding how it is controlled changes how the system performs.

Automated controls expand the range of discharge strategies available—allowing detention systems to perform more efficiently across a wider range of conditions.