Polluted stormwater has been documented to be the primary cause of water quality problems in Georgia’s waterways, including the Chattahoochee River and its tributaries.
Under the authority of the federal Clean Water Act, regulatory agencies issue permits to regulate stormwater runoff from a variety of sources including construction activities as well as impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and roofs. Developers and municipalities must apply to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division for a permit that reduces pollutants and manages stormwater runoff. For example, a developer must submit a notice of intent (NOI) under a general permit and prepare an engineering plan to control stormwater runoff from construction sites to show what best management practices, which are operating procedures and products that help control runoff, spills, and leaks, it will employ during land disturbing activities. Municipalities, however, must apply for an individual permit and prepare, implement and update a stormwater management program.
UCR has helped lead efforts by the environmental community to strengthen laws and regulations, improve educational and training programs, and secure enforcement actions against violators of stormwater laws.
In 2003, we helped negotiate the General Permits for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities and their renewal in 2008, strengthening these permits in both instances. In 2006, UCR helped negotiate improvements to Georgia’s General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Industrial Facilities, and we are currently active in the Stakeholder Process that is developing the 2011 Permit. We have also participated in drafting Georgia’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) Permit Program and continue to advocate for tighter stormwater discharge limits and incentives for low-impact development..
In 2005, we created the Get the Dirt Out Program and conducted a study which concluded that two-thirds of the construction sites investigated in Georgia had major violations. We then provided specific recommendations for improvements to Georgia’s erosion control program to government agencies. This education and enforcement project is now being used throughout Georgia and in several other southern states.
For examples of UCR cases, see Enforcement Highlights—Stormwater.
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