What is one of the main environmental benefits of using infiltration basins?

Using infiltration basins provides a significant environmental benefit by promoting groundwater recharge. Infiltration basins are designed to capture stormwater runoff and allow it to percolate through the soil into the groundwater table. This process replenishes the groundwater supplies, which are vital for maintaining base flows in rivers and streams, supporting ecosystems, and providing a source of drinking water. By facilitating this natural filtration and absorption process, infiltration basins help mitigate the impacts of urban development on hydrology and reduce reliance on surface water sources.

The other options describe effects that are not aligned with the primary purpose of infiltration basins. For instance, contributing to urban flooding implies a negative consequence rather than a controlled management strategy. Increasing surface water temperature is usually a result of insufficient vegetation cover or runoff rather than an outcome of infiltration systems. Lastly, decreasing soil fertility contradicts the intention behind infiltration basins, which can improve soil hydration and health by enhancing moisture availability, thereby supporting plant growth rather than detracting from it.