Storm Water Management for Industrial Activities: Developing Pollution Prevention Plans and Best Management Practices
Abstract
Storm water runoff is part of a natural hydrologic process. However, human activities, particularly urbanization, can alter natural drainage patterns and add pollutants to the rainwater and snowmelt that runs off the earth's surface and enters our Nation's rivers, lakes, streams, and coastal waters. A number of recent studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), State water pollution control authorities, and various universities have shown that storm water runoff is a major source of water pollution, declines in fisheries, restrictions on swimming, and these conditions limit our ability to enjoy many of the other benefits that the Nation's waters provide. In response to this problem, the States and many municipalities have been taking the initiative to manage storm water more effectively. In acknowledgement of the importance of the storm water problem, the Congress has directed EPA to undertake a wide range of activities, including providing technical and financial assistance to States and other jurisdictions to help them improve their storm water management programs. In addition, through recent amendments to the Clean Water Act, the Congress has instructed EPA to develop a regulatory program for certain high priority storm water sources. In carrying out its responsibilities, EPA is committed to promoting the concept and the practice of preventing pollution at the source, before it can cause environmental problems costing the public and private sector in terms of lost resources and the funding it takes to remediate or correct environmental damage.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA267227
Entities
Organizations
- Environmental Protection Agency