A surface that prevents water from infiltrating into the ground is a key characteristic of developed landscapes. Examples include roads, buildings, and paved parking lots. These surfaces fundamentally alter the natural water cycle by blocking the absorption of rainwater.
The presence of these barriers has significant consequences for water management and environmental health. Increased runoff volume, accelerated erosion, and pollution of waterways are common results. Historically, development patterns often neglected to account for the cumulative impacts of widespread surface coverage. Recent awareness has driven the implementation of mitigation strategies to reduce these negative effects.
