Stormwater Pollution Control

What’s the big deal about rain?

Well, unfortunately, after it hits the ground it carries pollutants with it into the storm drains and then (sometimes directly) to our waters. Almost all, if not all, states have determined that storm water pollution is the number one cause of impairments in our waters. In urban and suburban areas, storm water carries roof, road and auto-related contaminants, pesticides and fertilizers from yards and parks, and construction-related sediment loads that are harmful alone, but often carry contaminants with them. In rural areas, storm water may carry sediment loads from dirt roads, in addition to construction sites, and agricultural runoff as well.

Current work

River Network focuses its work on the control of polluted storm water through state permitting programs. Our work includes educating citizens about the federal regulation of municipal, industrial and construction storm water pollution and helping them determine whether their state is adequately implementing the federal requirements through their permitting programs.

In addition, River Network assists groups in their advocacy at the state and local levels. This work is accomplished through presentations, convening meetings, evaluation of all components of a program (regulations, permits, plans, ordinances, monitoring, reporting, compliance and enforcement), sharing successful approaches from around the country, contribution to comment letters, and conversations with state agency and EPA Region staff when necessary.

Past work

River Network has worked on this issue since 2001. In the early years, our efforts were directed toward preparing our Partners for the significant increase in regulated entities that occurred in 2003, when Phase II of the federal programs kicked in. Over time, our work has shifted from mostly education and training to more analysis and consultation directed toward advocacy.

Outcomes of our efforts have included an increased knowledge about the storm water permitting programs, increased public involvement in permit and storm water plan development, improved programs, permits and ordinances implementing the programs, and ultimately, we hope, in improved watershed health.

Contact us

If you would like to request training or consultation, click here.