Controlling Nonpoint Pollution in Virginia's Urbanizing Areas: An Institutional Perspective.

Abstract

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of the institutional framework of the Commonwealth of Virginia in the implementation and enforcement of nonpoint source (NPS) pollution control measures in the state's urbanizing areas. The institutional framework is developed primarily around the existing governmental framework. The federal, state and local roles are examined in terms of the relevant legislative and executive NPS control activities already taking place. The judicial function is considered in terms of constitutional guarantees of protection of private property and the potential for liability stemming from the implementation of structural and nonstructural best management practices (BMP's). Three generic categories of BMP's are evaluated in light of this institutional environment: on-site BMP's, off-site BMP's, and nonstructural BMP's. Where they are relevant, various sub-categories of the institutional environment are examined: mechanisms and responsibility for financing and maintenance, managing future urban growth and mediating interjurisdictional arrangements. The introduction and first four chapters develop this material and the final chapter is an analysis of the existing state programs ( the Erosion and Sediment Control Law and the State Water Control Board's voluntary Urban NPS Control and Abatement Program). The product of this analysis is the conclusion that both state programs are weak due to a lack of adequate state oversight.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 20, 1986
Accession Number
ADA163693

Entities

People

  • Gordon M. Wells

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Civil Engineering
  • Congress
  • Control
  • Drainage Basins
  • Employment
  • Engineers
  • Environment
  • Environmental Protection
  • Law
  • Management Personnel
  • Personnel Management
  • Storage
  • United States
  • United States Government
  • Urban Areas
  • Waste Collection
  • Water Conservation

Readers

  • Coastal and Marine Engineering/Sediment Transport/Hydraulic Engineering
  • Economics
  • Government and Public Administration Law.