Site & Civil / Vegetated stormwater channel
Swale
/sweɪl/noun
Dialect English swale, “a low, moist hollow,” possibly from Old Norse.
Definition
A broad, shallow, usually planted channel that slows, filters, and carries surface runoff away from buildings toward a drain or infiltration area.
Fig. 97 — Swale: schematic studyNOT TO SCALE
Illustrative study — Swale · AI-generatedSAMPLE IMAGE
Photo study — Swale · AI-generated00:06
Structural & construction notes
Gentle longitudinal slopes and wide, shallow sides keep flow slow so sediment settles and water soaks in. Check dams can lengthen retention. Swales are a common low-impact alternative to piped drainage.
An educational reference. Project-specific design requires professional guidance.