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