Stormwater Management

When proper controls are not in place, research studies show a clear link between urbanization and increased flooding, streambank erosion and pollutant export. The goal of stormwater management is to ensure that the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff from a site that is undergoing construction or development should not be substantially altered from its pre-development conditions. SWCD technical staff have been trained in proper techniques of erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management practices are designed into all construction projects overseen by the District.

Since federal stormwater regulations were established in late 1990, the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has been charged with managing stormwater through its permitting authority. Upon request by the DEC, the SWCD provides inspections and stormwater management recommendations for construction sites experiencing erosion problems. The SWCD also provides technical support to municipalities through the County Planning Department.

Stormwater management uses a variety of practices to minimize the type of erosion seen here. Covering areas of exposed soil with seed and mulch, with silt fence at the bottom of the slope for added protection, help keep sediment from streams and thereby reduce flooding.

For further information about this subject, see the following Links:

Delaware County Highway Dept. approach ►http://www.co.delaware.ny.us/departments/h2o/docs/DCAP%20Highways%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf

NYS DEC Stormwater site ►http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/8468.html

NY City DEP stormwater site ►http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/watershed_protection/stormwater.shtml

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