clean and clear

stormwater Education

Englesby Brook Watershed Restoration Plan Meeting

The success of stormwater treatment systems in reducing total phosphorus load coming from developed land depends on the quality of the stormwater design. As the stormwater field evolves, it is imperative that stormwater treatment designers are kept abreast of new regulations, technology, and innovative solutions to stormwater management. Continuing education seminars and training for stormwater design professionals are needed in order to ensure that stormwater regulations are understood, innovative solutions are explored, and stormwater systems are designed properly.

In order to ensure that stormwater programs are effective in reducing pollution and improving water quality, it is necessary for the public to understand the need for stormwater management and understand the stormwater regulations that apply. An education plan that encourages public awareness and involvement and fosters both community and municipal support is crucial. As a part of Phase II of the EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, regulated urban municipal entities are required to develop public education and outreach and well as public participation and involvement programs. A regional stormwater education program has been established by the regulated entities in Chittenden County in order to educate the public about the impacts of stormwater discharges on water bodies and the steps that the public can take to reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff. Enhanced funding to improve and expand the regional stormwater education program throughout the Vermont portion of the Lake Champlain Basin could be considered as part of the long-term strategy for stormwater management.

Chittenden County Regional Stormwater Education Program:
Smart Water Ways web site