How to Improve a Site's Stormwater Management Setup

Whether you've been hit by fines or other regulatory issues or just simply want to improve general processes, the need to upgrade a given site's stormwater management setup is a common one. This is where the use of stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) is often very useful, and the particular use of common best management practices (BMPs) within these setups can go a long way.

At Silver Leaf SWPPP, we're here to help. We assist clients around Utah and Idaho with all their SWPPP needs, from SWPPP certification through specific BMPs like erosion control, dewatering and more. Many of our clients initially come to us looking to improve existing stormwater management systems - here are some of the BMP-related approaches we often take with them, depending on what their specific needs are.

What Are BMPs?

Firstly, let's take a closer look at what BMPs actually are. Essentially, they're specific processes or practices that are designed to prevent pollutants from entering stormwater runoff and ultimately contaminating our water systems. These can be anything from physical structures like sediment basins or silt fences, to activities like regular street sweeping or routine inspections of construction sites.

BMPs are a constant in the world of stormwater management, but it's important to understand that what works for one site may not work as effectively for another. This is why it's crucial to work with experienced professionals who can assess your specific site and recommend the best BMPs tailored to your needs.

Types of BMPs

Broadly speaking, there are two varieties of BMPs in SWPPP setups:

• Structural BMPs: When we talk about structural BMPs, we're referring to any physical infrastructure put in place to prevent stormwater pollution. This could include things like detention ponds, filtration systems, and containment barriers.
• Non-structural BMPs: On the other hand, non-structural BMPs are more focused on changing behaviors or implementing specific practices. For example, this might involve regular street sweeping or managing erosion through vegetation control.

Knowing the Pollutants

In some cases, choosing the right BMPs for your site may involve understanding what pollutants you're dealing with. For example, if the primary concern is sediment or erosion control, then BMPs like silt fences and sediment basins may be most effective. However, if chemical pollution is a bigger issue, then filtration systems or containment barriers may be necessary.

Here's a short list of some of the most common pollutants that stormwater management programs are looking to combat:

• Sediment: The single most common type of stormwater pollution is sediment. This refers to any solid particles that are carried along in runoff, including soil, sand, and gravel.
• Chemicals: Pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals can also enter our water systems through stormwater runoff. These can be harmful to both humans and wildlife if not properly managed.
• Bacteria: Stormwater can pick up bacteria from a variety of sources, including animal waste or sewage leaks. These pollutants can cause serious health risks if they contaminate our water supply.
• Pathogens: Pathogens like viruses, parasites, and protozoa can also be carried by stormwater runoff. These can cause a range of illnesses if ingested.
• Nutrients: Things like fertilizer runoff can cause an overgrowth of algae and other plants in our water systems. This can lead to oxygen depletion, harming aquatic life.

Working With Professionals

In a high number of cases, the most effective stormwater management solutions involve a combination of both structural and non-structural BMPs. This is where working with experienced professionals like Silver Leaf SWPPP can make all the difference.

Our team of experts has years of experience in developing custom SWPPPs for a wide range of industries and sites. We understand the importance of choosing the right BMPs for your specific needs, and we have a deep knowledge of local regulations and compliance requirements.

Don't let stormwater pollution cause any more headaches - contact Silver Leaf SWPPP today to see how we can help improve your stormwater management setup!

Long-Term SWPPP Management

It's vital to note that stormwater management is anything but a one-time project. Regular maintenance and monitoring are key components of successful long-term SWPPP management. This is where our team at Silver Leaf SWPPP truly shines - we offer ongoing services to ensure that your BMPs are functioning properly and in compliance with regulations.

In addition, regular inspections and reports can provide valuable insights into potential issues or areas for improvement within your stormwater management system. This proactive approach not only helps prevent fines and regulatory issues but also keeps the surrounding environment safe and healthy.

As you can see, using BMPs as part of a comprehensive SWPPP setup is crucial for effective stormwater management. With the help of experienced professionals like Silver Leaf SWPPP, you can rest assured that your site is in good hands and doing its part to protect our water systems. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your specific stormwater management needs, whether you're in Utah or Idaho.