What is NPDES?

NPDES is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. What that means is that due to the Clean Water Act requirements are set up to regulate pollution into our streams and rivers. A permit program has been set up that controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States. Phase II of NPDES, requires permit coverage for stormwater discharges from regulated small municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s).

The EPA states that this program must include the development and implementation of best management practices and measurable goals for 6 minimum measure and include evaluation and reporting efforts for each. The MS4 entity has the flexibility to modify programs within each MCM as necessary to provide an appropriate level of protection.

• MS4 General Permit and Construction Site General Permit

THE 6 MINIMUM CONTROL MEASURES

MCM#1 - Public Education and Outreach. Distribute educational materials and performing outreach to inform citizens about the impacts polluted storm water runoff discharges can have on water quality.

MCM#2 - Public Participation/Involvement. Provide opportunities for citizens to participate in program development and implementation, including effectively publicizing public hearings and/or encouraging citizen representatives on a storm water management panel.

MCM#3 - Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination. Develop and implement a plan to detect and eliminate illicit discharges to the storm sewer system (includes developing a system map and informing the community about hazards associated with illegal discharges and improper disposal of waste).

MCM#4 - Construction Site Runoff Control. Develop, implement and enforce an erosion and sediment control program for construction activities that disturb one (1) or more acres of land (controls could include silt fences and temporary storm water detention ponds).

MCM#5 - Post-Construction Site Runoff Control. Develop, implement and enforce a program to address discharges of post-construction storm water runoff from new development and redevelopment areas. Applicable controls could include preventative actions such as protecting sensitive areas (e.g., wetlands) or the use of structural BMPs such as grassed swales or porous pavement.

MCM#6 - Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping. Develop and implement a program with the goal of preventing or reducing pollutant runoff from municipal operations. The program must include municipal staff training on pollution prevention measures and techniques (e.g., regular street sweeping, reduction in the use of pesticides or street salt, or frequent catch-basin cleaning).

REMEMBER....

WHAT GOES INTO YOUR STORM DRAINAGE SYSTEM ALSO GOES INTO YOUR OHIO RIVER!!!!

The City of Evansville has Combined Sewers meaning a majority of the city has a combined sewer system that handles and treats storm water as well as the sanitary sewer.

• Evansville Bright Banks website has more information about the Combined Sewer Overflow system in the City of Evansville.