Storm water is rainwater runoff that doesn’t soak into the ground – it flows over streets and sidewalks and eventually makes its way into the nearest stream, canal, or ocean. With the rainy season approaching, it’s the perfect time to use storm water as a hands-on learning opportunity in the classroom or even at home.
Storm water-themed science and engineering challenges can help students better understand our environment while sparking scientific curiosity and creativity. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or parent, these project ideas offer something for every level.
Beginner Projects:
Learn how rain gardens help reduce storm water runoff and filter pollutants.
Investigate how lawn fertilizers can affect aquatic life.
Try different materials to see what works best to absorb oil in water.
Discover how rocks are used to prevent soil erosion along streams and slopes.
Intermediate Projects:
Test whether plants can grow using reused water from sinks or showers.
Explore how rooftop gardens can reduce heat and absorb storm water.
Study how well storm drains catch litter before it reaches the ocean.
Design and test a system that collects and stores rainwater.
Advanced Projects:
Use these tiny water fleas to detect harmful pollutants in storm water.
Use data and algorithms to forecast water quality trends.
Analyze the link between storm water runoff and excess nutrients.
Study how native plants help reduce runoff and erosion.
Trying one of these projects? Snap a photo and tag us on Facebook and Instagram at @stormwaterhawaii. We’d love to see what you discover!
Find more projects like these on our website.
Sources: Storm Water Hawaii. Science Buddies
