Which of the following is a result of effective stormwater management?

Effective stormwater management plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing the quality of water in surrounding aquatic ecosystems. By implementing strategies such as retention basins, permeable pavements, and appropriate drainage systems, stormwater can be controlled to reduce runoff and filter pollutants before they enter natural water bodies. This proactive approach minimizes the amount of debris, chemicals, and other contaminants that would otherwise flow directly into rivers, lakes, and oceans, thereby improving overall water quality.

The other options present outcomes that conflict with the objectives of effective stormwater management. For instance, increased urban flooding risks would result from inadequate management of stormwater, while higher rates of erosion in natural landscapes could stem from uncontrolled runoff that disrupts soil stability. Similarly, reduced green space in urban areas tends to occur when considerations for natural drainage and vegetation are overlooked, which is counterproductive to sustainable stormwater solutions. Thus, improving water quality in nearby water bodies is a clear and direct benefit of effective stormwater management practices.