Introduction
Stormwater runoff is rain or melted snow that doesn’t soak into the ground. Instead, it flows over surfaces such as parking lots, rooftops, and loading docks, where it can pick up pollutants like oil, chemicals, heavy metals, trash, and other potentially harmful materials. This contaminated water typically enters storm drains and eventually flows into rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water—often without any treatment. Understanding and effectively managing stormwater runoff is essential for regulatory compliance, infrastructure protection, and environmental health.
The Environmental and Operational Impact
Uncontrolled stormwater runoff can cause serious damage to a site. It may lead to flooding, erosion of landscaping and building foundations, and even result in mold growth or water intrusion within structures. These issues can significantly disrupt a company’s operations and lead to costly repairs.
Contaminated runoff can also have serious environmental consequences. As it flows into nearby rivers, lakes, or streams, it can carry pollutants like oils, chemicals, sediments, and debris. These substances can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, harm wildlife, degrade water quality, and even affect recreational use and drinking water sources. Over time, the cumulative impact of unchecked runoff can lead to long-term environmental degradation..
Stormwater Management Best Practices
Stormwater can be effectively managed through a combination of thoughtful design, routine maintenance, and preventative measures. Regular site inspections and upkeep are essential to staying in compliance and minimizing the risk of costly damage. Maintenance activities may include sweeping debris, cleaning catch basins, properly storing materials, and other best practices that reduce pollutant exposure. However, even with a strong stormwater management plan in place, clogs or overlooked issues can still lead to significant problems if not addressed promptly.
Stormwater Policy and Regulations
In many areas, regulations govern the proper management of stormwater. The Clean Water Act, through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), provides a legal framework that often requires industrial sites to develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). This plan should outline a site’s runoff risks, identify potential sources of pollution, and detail the steps taken to minimize environmental impact. Even if your site is not subject to these specific requirements, following these principles can help prevent citations, avoid surprise inspections, and reduce the risk of environmental liability from other causes.
Conclusion
Stormwater mismanagement can quickly become a liability. If your site needs an SWPPP update, infrastructure review, or another type of expert support on compliance, Highlands is here to help! Our specialists can assess your current situation and create a tailored plan to manage stormwater effectively and responsibly. Reach out today to info@hesnc.com to learn more about what we can do for you!
