摘要: |
In an effort to control and reduce nonpoint source pollution, the Environmental Protection Agency has enacted National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations for storm water discharges. The regulations require that municipalities and industries apply for and obtain permits for their storm water discharges. Applicants much also implement best management practices to control pollutants in those storm water discharges. The NPDES regulations have affected municipalities and industries throughout the country, as well as transportation agencies such as the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). CDOT has evaluated the NPDES regulations and has developed a storm water program, which has kept CDOT in complete compliance. How the NPDES regulations are addressed in Colorado, what effects they have had on CDOT, and how CDOT has responded to those effects are described. CDOT's compliance program is described, and major steps associated with obtaining compliance, including outfalls identification and monitoring activities, are explained in detail. Problems encountered during the compliance program's development, and future developments, especially those that could result from reauthorization of the Clean Water Act, are included, as well as conclusions reached by CDOT during the development of its compliance program. |