July 19, 2024
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, under the Clean Water Act, regulates pollutant discharges into U.S. waters. In Georgia, the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) oversees the implementation of NPDES permits, ensuring that municipal, industrial, and construction activities adhere to water quality standards through regular stormwater sampling.
Municipal Stormwater – In Georgia, municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) are categorized into Phase I and Phase II communities, each with specific NPDES permit requirements. Municipalities must develop comprehensive stormwater management programs that include public education, illicit discharge detection, construction site runoff control, post-construction stormwater management, and pollution prevention for municipal operations. Regular sampling is required to monitor parameters such as total suspended solids (TSS), nutrients, heavy metals, and pathogens to assess the effectiveness of these programs.
Industrial Stormwater – Industrial facilities in Georgia that discharge stormwater directly into water bodies must obtain NPDES permits and follow specific sampling protocols. The EPD requires industries to implement stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) and monitor discharges for pollutants related to their operations. Common parameters include oil and grease, heavy metals (e.g., lead, zinc, copper), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and other hazardous substances. Industries must regularly report their findings to the EPD and take corrective actions if pollutant levels exceed permitted limits.
Construction Stormwater – Construction activities in Georgia, particularly those disturbing one or more acres, must secure NPDES permits. The EPD mandates the development of erosion, sediment, and pollution control plans. Regular sampling focuses on TSS, turbidity, and pH levels to ensure that construction sites implement effective best management practices (BMPs) such as silt fences, sediment basins, and soil stabilization techniques to minimize pollutant discharges. Compliance helps protect local water bodies from the impacts of construction runoff.
How NOVA Conducts NPDES Sampling in Georgia – NOVA’s Stormwater professionals are aiming to helping our clients comply with NPDES stormwater regulations in Georgia in many ways:
- Compliance with Stormwater Management Plans: For municipal and construction activities, we are part of the process to create a detailed plan outlining BMPs and measures to control pollutant discharges. For industrial activities, this includes developing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
- Enforce BMPs: Review the installation and maintenance of BMPs to reduce pollutant levels in stormwater runoff. This includes structural controls like silt fences and sediment basins, as well as non-structural practices like employee training and spill response planning.
- Conduct Regular Sampling: Collect stormwater samples at specified intervals and analyze them for pollutants identified in your permit. Ensure that sampling procedures follow Georgia EPD guidelines to obtain accurate and representative data.
- Monitor and Report: Track pollutant levels and report findings as required by your permit. Use the data to assess the effectiveness of BMPs and make necessary adjustments.
- Stay Informed and Trained: Ensure that our professionals involved in stormwater management and sampling are adequately trained and stay updated on any changes to NPDES regulations and requirements.
NOVA’s stormwater team and NPDES knowledge can help to effectively manage stormwater discharges, comply with NPDES requirements, and contribute to protecting the state’s water quality.
