Every MS4 permit is slightly different, but they all follow the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. This means that all MS4 permits include instructions and requirements on the Minimum Control Measures (MCM). For MS4s that fall under the small MS4 permits, there are 6 Minimum Control Measures that must be implemented in order to meet the requirements of the permit. The names of the MCMs may be different in your state, but the objectives are the same.
*These are the 6 MCMs as defined by the EPA:
1. Public education and outreach
2. Public involvement and participation
3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) program
4. Construction site stormwater runoff control
5. Stormwater management in new development and redevelopment (post construction stormwater management)
6. Good housekeeping and pollution prevention for permittee owned operations
MS4s not falling under the small MS4 permits also have a seventh MCM for industrial site stormwater runoff control. Let’s focus our attention on two of the MCMs, numbers 1 and 4. These are the two control measures that deal with construction developers and contractors.
You may already be very familiar with the construction site stormwater runoff control programs. This is the only one of the six MCMs in the small MS4 permit that actually includes another permit within it. The construction general permit for each permitted state contains all of the regulations and requirements under which developers must operate to stay compliant. That means that both the construction operator AND the MS4 are held responsible for stormwater runoff from construction sites.
Most MS4s have spent quite a bit of time developing a construction site runoff control program. This is important because the EPA lists sediment as the most common pollutant in rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs. The EPA estimates that 70 percent of sediment pollution in our waterways comes from human use of land, with the vast majority of that coming from construction sites. They estimate this pollution causes around $16 billion in environmental damage each year (see more). Sediment causes a lot of problems. It’s no wonder the EPA puts a lot of emphasis on MS4s having a solid
construction program.
Stormwater management software for inspections is necessary for MS4 operators to effectively manage stormwater, identify potential problems, ensure compliance with regulations, and improve communication with stakeholders. Investing in software will streamline the inspection process, save time and money, and promote trust and engagement with the community. It’s a crucial tool for maintaining the health and sustainability of our environment.
Contact us today if you’d like to learn more about our stormwater management software, designed to make your job easier!
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