October 17, 2023
Birds, Planes, and Sustainability: An Innovative Stormwater Solution
Have you ever considered the potential hazards of standing water on airport runways? It may seem innocuous, but it’s a risk that can’t be underestimated. Airports boast vast, flat expanses, and when rainwater accumulates, it forms standing pools that attract birds and wildlife, creating a perilous situation for both aircraft and the environment.
Here’s a sobering fact: The Federal Aviation Administration records an average of 47 aircraft strikes every day, and a significant 97% of these involve bird strikes, often occurring during takeoffs and landings—precisely where these runway ponds tend to develop. These collisions have resulted in tragic consequences, including over 300 fatalities and nearly 300 aircraft losses worldwide between 1988 and 2021.
This is the exact challenge that the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) in Oregon faced. The airport needed to construct a secondary runway to accommodate future growth, but it wasn’t just about expansion. They required an innovative stormwater solution that would ensure long-term sustainability, comply with environmental regulations, and minimize their environmental footprint.
Introducing the Boxless BioPod™ Biofiltration System with StormMix™ Media from Oldcastle Infrastructure—a cutting-edge green infrastructure solution. This system not only effectively removed pollutants but also reduced maintenance costs and demonstrated the airport’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. It’s a win-win-win-win scenario—benefiting aircraft, passengers, wildlife, and the environment.
In a recent article featured in The APWA Reporter, we delve into how this innovative solution met the airport’s challenges and created a safer, more sustainable environment for aviation.
Looking for the right BioPod™ solution for your project? Our Selection Tool simplifies the process of identifying the ideal system that aligns with your site’s unique biofiltration needs. By utilizing site-specific information, this tool guides you through the selection process and offers comprehensive product details upon its conclusion.
