Storm Water BMPs

NPDES Phase II Applications

The Environmental Protection Agency’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II regulations have recently been implemented in communities across the country. Best Management Practices (BMPs) for stormwater quality have been developed to meet these new guidelines. Many of the most effective and cost efficient of these BMPs involve the creation of native plant communities that help filter stormwater.

Best Management Practices that utilizing native plant communities include the following:

• Stormwater Treatment Wetlands and Ponds
  
• Forested Wetland Understory
• Vegetated Swales
• Bioretention Areas

Acceptable Stormwater BMPs vary by community and region of the county, so be certain to check local regulation before designing BMPs.

Educational Projects

Educational projects utilizing native plant communities can qualify as BMPs in public settings such as schools, parks, and libraries. They provide a public service purpose rather than a specific water quality solution. The goal of educational projects is to teach the public about water quality issues.