Stormwater Management

STORMWATER BASIC INFORMATION

Overview

Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation from rain and snowmelt events flows over land or impervious surfaces and does not percolate into the ground. As the runoff flows over the land or impervious surfaces (paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops), it accumulates debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants that could adversely affect water quality if the runoff is discharged untreated. The primary method to control stormwater discharges is the use of best management practices (BMPs). In addition, most stormwater discharges are considered point sources and require coverage under an NPDES permit. For more information about the Stormwater program, visit EPA’s web site for the Stormwater Basic Information page.

Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)

Federal regulations that were issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established permit requirements within the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for discharge to surface water from certain MS4s. The intent of these regulations is the improve water quality of the waterways in the United States. The permit requirement applies to small MS4s that have been designated by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PEDEP).

THE COUNTY OF BERKS

To find useful information on Stormwater Regulations, MS4, Act 167

and other stormwater management resources click this link to reach

the Berks County Stormwater Management the web page:

http://www.co.berks.pa.us/Dept/Planning/Pages/BerksCounty%27sStormwaterManagementProgram.aspx

Bern Township is a participating member of the Berks County MS4 Steering Committee.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

PA Department of Environmental Protection

Southeast Regional Office

2 East Main Street

Norristown, PA 19401

In case of environmental emergency, please call 484.250.5900 (24 hours)

http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/dep_home/5968

Stormwater Outreach Materials and Reference Documents

http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwatermonth.cfm

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

Stormwater Outreach Materials and Reference Documents

Stormwater Best Management Practices

http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/menuofbmps/index.cfm

National Menu of Stormwater Best Management Practices