Thursday, May 3, 2012

Menu Of Stormwater Best Management Practices

Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP)

Environmental Business Solutions Inc™ (EBS)  has been following Best Management Practices since the companies inception over a decade ago and is dedicated to meeting the increasingly complex requirements of modern stormwater management. Recognizing the growing impact waste water has on our environment, EBS works closely with its clients to develop applications that exceed minimum requirements and reduce liability. We encourage you to study these practices and adjust your own applications accordingly.
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program regulates stormwater discharges from three potential sources: municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s), construction activities, and industrial activities. 
The changes in water quality are creating a variety of problems, all of which are compounded by urban development. Applying these practices can help protection of wetlands and aquatic ecosystems, improved quality of our rivers, streams and oceans, conservation of water resources, protection of public health, and flood control.
The stormwater pollution problem has two main components: the increased volume and rate of runoff coupled with the concentration of pollutants in the runoff. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permits Program consists of a number of programs and initiatives designed for preventing water pollution.  The EPA expects to update this menu as new information and technologies become available and encourages participation from developers as new technologies are developed.
 Currently the Menu Of Stormwater Phase II Rule's six minimum control measures:
  1. Public Education
  2.  - BMPs for MS4s to inform individuals and households about ways to reduce stormwater pollution.
  3. Public Involvement 
  4. - BMPs for MS4s to involve the public in the development, implementation, and review of an MS4's stormwater management program.
  5. Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination
  6.  - BMPs for identifying and eliminating illicit discharges and spills to storm drain systems.
  7. Construction
  8.  - BMPs for MS4s and construction site operators to address stormwater runoff from active construction sites.
  9. Post-construction
  10.  - BMPs for MS4s, developers, and property owners to address stormwater runoff after construction activities have completed.
  11. Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping
  12.  - BMPs for MS4s to address stormwater runoff from their own facilities and activities.
For information on problems associated with stormwater, general BMP information, and the stormwater Phase II rule, go to background information.
EBS is a member of the City of Portland's Clean River Rewards Professional Referral List.

This information is found on the EPA website and is republished here for your education. We have included links to the site for further study, and hope you find this information helpful. If we can answer any questions for you, or be of assistance, please contact us.