What are Impervious Surfaces?
Impervious surfaces means the footprint of structures or land areas where precipitation is essentially unable to infiltrate into the soil. Such surfaces include but are not limited to roadways and pathways which are paved or graveled, roofs, patios, decks and similar areas. Impervious surfaces are limited because of the concerns and negative impacts that unfiltered stormwater has on our lakes and rivers. Hard surfaces prevent water from infiltrating through the soil and increase the velocity and often the duration of runoff. Impervious surfaces may also cause negative impacts by diverting runoff to neighboring properties. Studies have shown that once the area around a waterway reaches 10-15% impervious surfaces, water quality is greatly and noticeably reduced. Most of the older shoreland lots in Rusk County were created for smaller, seasonal cabins. Because of present economical and social standards, however, many people are able to afford, and wish to have, larger homes and garages. U
