Custom-Designed Beemats Help Auto Import Facility In Baltimore, MD

Amports is an auto import facility in Baltimore, MD. The facility is surrounded by a massive parking lot that stores newly imported vehicles until they are hauled away. A stormwater drainage basin catches the runoff from the parking lot and immediately discharges into the Chesapeake Bay. Driving, storing, and loading these new vehicles daily led to excess nutrients, chemicals, and pollutants in the drainage pond. This was alarming to the regulation bodies in charge of the facility because the pond had no filter before dumping into the Chesapeake.

We installed a biological filter for runoff, Beemats, to improve water quality before it leaves the property. We planted a monoculture of Spartina Paten grass on the floating islands because it has been shown to store the targeted pollutants in its plant tissues. In addition, this type of grass is hardy and survives the frozen winters of Baltimore.

Due to the highly customizable mat design, we deviated from our usual round island shapes. Alternatively, we developed a long strip design. The strip attached to the metal bulkhead surrounding the pond. This was achieved by building hinged fiberglass rods to attach to the wall. As a result, the mats fluctuate with the water level.

• Sequesters excess bioavailable nutrients in the water column.
• Competes with invasive species using native plants.
• Can be utilized in new construction or retrofits.
• Periodic maintenance ensures the success of the project.
• Included reports show the removed nutrients.

Lake Welchel, SC is another customer who greatly improved water quality by implementing Beemats floating wetlands.