City Vista Circuit Experiment, Fraser Rise
This experiment tests three methods of diverting runoff to support support street trees.
Location
The map below shows the study site and replicates of different systems in the experiment.
Key design elements
- Runoff enters gravel infiltration trenches installed either side of the tree via: i) a Treenet inlet, ii) a kerb cut or iii) a roof connection
- each trench is 1500 mm long, 600 mm wide and 500 mm deep and therefore total storage of 342 L (assuming porosity of 38%)
- flows are conveyed into the first trench which is connected to the second by a 90 mm slotted pipe
- the trenches have no overflow, therefore once full, water backs up to the inlet invert and bypasses the system
Experimental design
The experiment has four treatments:
- Tree planted as per standard (control treatment)
- Trees receiving runoff via a Treenet inlet
- Trees receiving runoff via a kerb cut
- Trees receiving runoff via a roof connection
Monitoring
We’re monitoring tree growth, soil moisture and runoff volume capture in the experiment for two years (July 2021 - July 2023).
Project status
Construction was completed by Bitu-mill in May 2021. We’ve been monitoring runoff capture at the site since October 2021 and collected data in the absence of specific maintenance until July 2022. We’re now maintaining the systems every 3-4 weeks and will continue collecting data until mid-2023.
Project team
The experiment at City Vista Circuit represents a collaboration between the City of Melton, Melbourne Water, Alluvium Consulting and researchers from The University of Melbourne. This work is supported by the Livable Communities, Livable Waters Program.