Washington State Decision Makes Low Impact Development Mandatory
A 2008 decision in a Washington state lawsuit over National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit language means that Phase I permittees in Washington will now require new developments to implement LID (Low Impact Development) where feasible.
In the July-August issue of Stormwater Magazine, Henrietta H. P. Locklear writes that: “Another decision, affecting the Western Washington Phase II permit, was issued in February 2009. While it is less radical, it too will drive the implementation of LID in Washington.”
“Through this decision, LID makes the leap from its innovative roots to become standard stormwater management. If this kind of change becomes widespread, as the EPA’s path indicates it will, the response of regulators and the regulated community will be fascinating to watch. How will permitting and regulation change to focus on parcel-level treatment? What new methods for treating stormwater may emerge?”
“The implementation of mandatory LID in the revised Phase I permit will pioneer the concept among NPDES permits. The country will watch with interest as the Department of Ecology, permittees, and stakeholders work through the details.”
To access the complete article, click on Washington State Decision Makes LID Mandatory.
What is the NPDES Stormwater Program?
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program regulates stormwater discharges from three potential sources: municipal separate storm sewer systems, construction activities, and industrial activities. Most stormwater discharges are considered point sources, and operators of these sources may be required to receive an NPDES permit before they can discharge. This permitting mechanism is designed to prevent stormwater runoff from washing harmful pollutants into local surface waters such as streams, rivers, lakes or coastal waters.
Acknowledgement:
Before STORMWATER, The Journal for Surface Water Quality Professionals, there was no single publication written specifically for the professional involved with surface water quality issues, protection, projects, and programs.
Posted July 2009