Nature-Based Solutions and Green Infrastructure in Watershed Management

Abstract

Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and Green Infrastructure (GI) provide environmentally sustainable approaches to watershed management by replicating natural water flow processes. This paper examines how these methods contribute to lowering surface runoff, boosting groundwater replenishment, and enhancing the quality of water. Through real-world case examples and innovative design approaches, the discussion emphasizes their economic efficiency and environmental advantages, supporting their inclusion in watershed development strategies and policy- making frameworks.

Introduction

Watershed management is essential for sustainable water resource use, erosion prevention, and ecological balance. Traditional grey infrastructure (e.g., concrete drains, dams) often disrupts natural systems, prompting a shift toward Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and Green Infrastructure (GI). These eco-friendly approaches integrate natural features like vegetation, soil, and landscapes to manage floods, improve water quality, recharge groundwater, and boost climate resilience.

This study explores the planning, modeling, implementation, and evaluation of NbS and GI in a mixed land-use watershed using satellite data, GIS tools, and the SWAT hydrological model. Site-appropriate interventions—such as bioswales, constructed wetlands, and riparian buffers—were selected based on terrain and soil characteristics.

Key Findings

1. Hydrological Impact:

   • NbS reduced surface runoff by 28–35%.

   • Groundwater recharge increased by 15–22%.

2. Water Quality & Sediment Control:

   • Sediment yield decreased by 30–45% with riparian buffers.

   • Constructed wetlands reduced nitrates by 40% and phosphates by 33%.

3. Cost and Effectiveness:

   • NbS outperformed grey infrastructure in long-term functionality.

   • Life-cycle cost savings of 40%, plus added ecosystem and aesthetic benefits.

4. Community Feedback:

   • Strong public support for NbS due to improved water access and soil moisture.

   • Concerns over maintenance and technical skills suggest need for institutional support.

Performance Comparison

Conclusion

Nature-Based Solutions and Green Infrastructure offer a resilient, adaptive, and environmentally integrated approach to watershed management. By leveraging ecological processes, these systems not only manage stormwater effectively but also contribute to biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and socio-economic development. Compared to conventional methods, NbS exhibits long-term sustainability with reduced ecological footprint. Their successful implementation depends on interdisciplinary planning, community involvement, and supportive policy mechanisms. As climate-related extremes become more frequent, incorporating NbS into watershed strategies is not just an option, but a necessity for sustainable water resource governance. 1) Integration of Green Infrastructure in Urban Flood Management – Zhang et al. (2021): This study evaluated bioswales and green roofs using the SWMM model in urban watersheds. Results showed a 35% reduction in surface runoff and improved infiltration rates. The paper highlights how green infrastructure can effectively mitigate urban flooding while supporting natural hydrological cycles. 2) Evaluation of Constructed Wetlands in Urban Watersheds – Wang et al. (2020): Wang et al. assessed constructed wetlands for pollutant reduction in stormwater runoff. Monitoring data showed 40% nitrate and 33% phosphate removal. The study confirms that integrating wetlands into urban watershed systems significantly improves downstream water quality and ecological resilience. 3) Hydrological Impacts of NbS in Hilly Terrain – Sharma et al. (2023): This research applied HEC-HMS modeling to evaluate check dams, reforestation, and slope stabilization in Himalayan watersheds. The interventions reduced peak runoff by 25% and sediment yield by over 30%, proving the effectiveness of NbS in erosion control and water conservation in steep landscapes.

References

[1] R. Lal, “Soil and water conservation for climate-resilient agriculture,” in Soil Conservation and Management, 1st ed. New York, NY, USA: Springer, 2021. [2] S. N. Pal, “Watershed development and integrated planning,” in Watershed Management: Concepts and Applications, 2nd ed. New Delhi, India: PHI Learning, 2019. [3] M. T. Brown, “Green infrastructure and ecosystem services,” in Ecological Engineering Design: Restoring and Conserving Ecosystem Services, 1st ed. Boca Raton, FL, USA: CRC Press, 2015. [4] P. K. Ramachandran Nair, “Agroforestry systems in watershed management,” in Agroforestry: Theory and Practices, 3rd ed. Jodhpur, India: Scientific Publishers, 2020. [5] C. A. Johnston and B. L. Bedford, “Wetlands in watershed protection,” in Wetland Ecology and Management, 2nd ed. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2018. [6] G. T. Miller, “Sustainable urban stormwater management,” in Environmental Science: Working with the Earth, 15th ed. Boston, MA, USA: Cengage Learning, 2020. [7] A. H. Dhruva, “Application of GIS in watershed studies,” in Geoinformatics for Natural Resource Management, 1st ed. Hyderabad, India: BS Publications, 2017.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Kiran Tondihal, Bharath Kumar G, Hitesh Vihan H K, Gowtham Prasad M E. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.