SWPPP Inspections Explained: A Practical Guide for Property Managers

SWPPP, pronounced SWIP, is a term that many environmental professionals use. We say SWPPP because it’s fun to say, and because it’s a lot quicker than saying, “StormWater Pollutant Prevention Plan.” The 300 page three-ring binder that is generally found on a book shelf of the EHS director’s office and can be too often forgotten. However, the document is to be updated with changes on the site and inspection reports.

WHEN SWPPP INSPECTIONS ARE REQUIRED

Industrial sites are divided into sectors. Each sector provides different expectations for what is to be included in the SWPPP. However, all sectors are required to give four inspections, one of which should be completed during a rain event that creates discharge. These quarterly inspections are to be completed, documented, and placed in the three-ring binder. They should also be accompanied by at least three photos. I tell my inspectors that we are not on site to solely look for problems.

WHAT INSPECTORS LOOK FOR

Inspectors record what functions as design, what areas need to be monitored as a concern, what repairs or changes should be made, and what is currently failing. The inspector, then is a sword and shield. Defending the property and practices as well and going on the offense with strategic capital improvements.

An inspector’s visit can be simplified through color code.

Gray: He is assesses the structures on site. These structures begin with the outfall pipe, which is connected to the discharge riser in the stormwater basin. Through these two structures, a lot can be told about the site. Sediment accumulation, trash, odor, algea all point to various issues throughout the property. The inspector also looks at riparian buffers, inlet pipes, impervious surfaces, catchbasin, junction boxes, flumes, curbing, downspout tie ins, and other man made BMPs on the site.

Green: These are are often considered low impact development (LID), which includes rain gardens, vegetated swales. the lawn, as well as slopes and hillsides. The inspector is looking for erosion and sediment accumulation. The vegetation density is required to be over 80% throughout the entire site. An inspector may considers plant health. Also around under ground infrastructure, the inspector is looking for divets or other signs of sub-surface soil loss.

Brown: Furthermore, the inspector considers the soil. Is the soil saturated pointing to insignificant water conveyance? Has there been improper soil compaction on site from heavy equipment? Again, looking for sediment accumulation, and erosion. Does the soil have a septic, sweet, or foul odor?

Blue: Finally, the inspector consider water. Lookin for water standing where is should be gone (72 hours after a rain event), looking for oil sheen, or other pollutants in the water. If a body of water is near by, the inspector will look for fish kill. While the inspector may be able to notice extreme turbidity, most water contamination requires sondes. There is increasing pressure for some industrial sites to install electronic monitoring devices. If your site does not currently have them, it might be worth starting those conversations now. Buck Outdoors helps industrial sites throughout the United State design, calibrate, instal and manage monitoring devices.

DOCUMENTATION PROPERTY MANAGERS MUST KEEP

Your SWPPP is a living record. It should be growing each year. In your three-ring binder you should be adding the following documents:

• Spill Reports: The SWPPP has a template that should be completed to document what caused the spill, what was spilt, and how the spill was contained and disposed of. You will also document any procedure changes that illuminate the risk.

• Inspection Reports: Each quarter, you need to add your inspection report. These should be performed, dated, and signed by a stormwater professional. If your inspector does not include photos, ask for a minimum of three defensible photos (geo & time stamped) from the inspection.

• Construction Change: Changes to your facility should be included in your SWPPP. Often time, these changes will require a more indepth edit to your SWPPP. For instance a new building or parking lot will require such an edit.

HOW OUTSOURCING SWPPP INSPECTION REDUCES STRESS

The EPA, or your state, requires that a stormwater professional inspect quarterly. By bringing in a third-party inspector, there is a person on site who has not grown accustomed to the faculty’s condition. A fresh set of eyes, tends to give a more in depth and comprehensive evaluation. However, the third party inspection does not mean that the facility manager should be released of his own inspections. We provide EHS Directors and Facility Managers a checklist that can be used after rain events. These are simple observations that should be used to supplement the quarterly, third-party inspections.

If you would like to be better prepared to manage your site’s stormwater infrastructure, visit our page for facility managers.

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If you’re a property manager responsible for stormwater compliance, Buck Outdoors LLC provides inspections and monitoring for industrial properties the United States. Feel free to contact us if you have questions about your site.

KEYWORDS: SWPPP inspections, stormwater compliance services, industrial stormwater inspections

The Imperative of Inspecting Stormwater Ponds

Stormwater ponds, essential components of stormwater management systems, play a critical role in safeguarding water quality and preventing environmental degradation. However, as we delve into the importance of inspecting these ponds, the tale of unauthorized discharge by Envirochem Corp serves as a cautionary narrative, underlining the consequences of negligence in stormwater management.

Envirochem Corp found itself at the center of an environmental controversy in Zionsville, IN due to unauthorized discharge that contaminated waterways. In 1985, a storm pond overflowed into a swale during a heavy rain event. The swale empties into Finley Creek, which feeds the Eagle Creek Reservoir, a source for Indianapolis’s drinking water. This incident brought to light the potential hazards associated with lax monitoring and insufficient inspections of stormwater ponds. The company's actions resulted in environmental chaos, with pollutants entering water bodies, threatening aquatic ecosystems, and posing risks to public health.

The fallout from the Envirochem Corp incident extended beyond immediate consequences. The company faced legal repercussions, fines, and a tarnished reputation within the community. This incident underscores the need for stringent monitoring and proactive inspections to prevent unauthorized discharge and protect the environment.

The Importance of Stormwater Pond Inspections:

Inspections of stormwater ponds are a critical component of responsible stormwater management. Regular assessments ensure that these ponds function effectively, capturing and treating runoff while preventing the release of harmful pollutants into water bodies. Key aspects of stormwater pond inspections include:

1. Structural Integrity: Inspections assess the structural soundness of stormwater ponds, identifying any signs of erosion, leaks, or other vulnerabilities that could compromise their effectiveness.

2. Sediment Accumulation: Stormwater ponds are designed to trap sediment, preventing it from entering water bodies. Inspections evaluate the level of sediment accumulation and determine whether sediment removal is necessary for continued functionality.

3. Vegetation Health: Vegetation within and around stormwater ponds plays a crucial role in filtration. Inspections evaluate the health of vegetation, ensuring that it effectively contributes to the natural treatment of stormwater.

4. Water Quality: Regular water quality testing during inspections ensures that stormwater ponds are not inadvertently becoming sources of contamination. Monitoring parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels helps identify potential issues.

A Call to Action for Industrial Sites:

The Envirochem Corp incident serves as a stark reminder that environmental responsibility cannot be compromised. To prevent such incidents and foster a culture of proactive stewardship, industrial sites must prioritize stormwater pond inspections. However, rather than relying solely on internal assessments, a more effective approach is to enlist the services of third-party contractors.

Third-party inspectors bring impartiality, expertise, and a fresh perspective to stormwater pond inspections. Their objective assessments can identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring compliance with regulations and mitigating the risk of environmental chaos. By investing in third-party inspections, industrial sites not only demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship but also protect their reputation, finances, and the well-being of surrounding communities.

Inspecting stormwater ponds is not just a regulatory obligation, it is a proactive measure essential for environmental sustainability. The Envirochem Corp incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting stormwater management responsibilities. As we navigate the landscape of industrial practices, let us heed the lessons learned and embrace a culture of responsibility.

Industrial sites are urged to take a proactive stance by engaging third-party contractors for thorough stormwater pond inspections. By doing so, businesses not only fulfill their environmental obligations but also contribute to a cleaner, healthier future. The call to action is clear: prioritize inspections, invest in environmental stewardship, and pave the way for a sustainable coexistence with our natural surroundings.

Why Manufacturing Sites Need a Qualified SWPPP Manager: The Importance of Hiring a Third-Party Expert

Manufacturing sites are responsible for a significant amount of stormwater runoff, which can pose a threat to the environment if not properly managed. That's where a qualified Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) manager comes in. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of manufacturing sites hiring a third-party, qualified SWPPP manager.

1. Compliance with Regulations

Manufacturing sites must comply with a variety of environmental regulations related to stormwater runoff. These regulations vary by state and region, and failure to comply can result in costly fines and penalties. A qualified SWPPP manager can help ensure that your manufacturing site is compliant with all regulations, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues.

2. Expertise and Knowledge

A qualified SWPPP manager has the expertise and knowledge to properly assess your site's potential sources of stormwater pollution and develop effective solutions to prevent it. They can also conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure that your site remains in compliance with regulations.

3. Cost-Effective

Hiring a third-party, qualified SWPPP manager can actually be cost-effective in the long run. They can identify potential issues before they become more serious and costly problems. By investing in a qualified SWPPP manager, you can reduce the risk of costly fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage.

4. Reduced Liability

Manufacturing sites can face significant liability if they fail to properly manage stormwater runoff. A qualified SWPPP manager can help reduce your liability by ensuring that your site is compliant with regulations and implementing effective solutions to prevent pollution.

5. Improved Reputation

Finally, a manufacturing site that prioritizes stormwater management and hires a qualified SWPPP manager can improve its reputation in the community and among customers. By demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility, you can differentiate your site from competitors and attract environmentally-conscious customers.

In summary, hiring a third-party, qualified SWPPP manager can help manufacturing sites comply with regulations, reduce costs, reduce liability, and improve their reputation. To learn more about how a qualified SWPPP manager can benefit your manufacturing site, contact a professional service provider like Buck Outdoors.

Addressing Concerns: What to Do if You Suspect Issues with Your Local Detention Pond

Introduction:

Detention ponds play a vital role in managing stormwater and protecting local waterways. However, if you believe that your local detention pond is facing problems such as poor maintenance, water quality issues, or inadequate drainage, it's important to take action. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to address your concerns effectively, with an emphasis on open communication with the property owner or manager.

1. Observe and Document the Issues:

Before taking any action, spend some time observing and documenting the problems you notice in the detention pond. Take photographs, make notes about visible issues, and gather any relevant information regarding the potential impact on the surrounding environment or nearby properties. This documentation will serve as evidence and help facilitate discussions.

2. Research the Property Owner or Manager:

Identify the appropriate property owner or manager responsible for the detention pond. This information can usually be obtained through local government records, homeowner associations, or property management companies. It's important to reach out to the correct person or entity to ensure your concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. If you are unsure who might own the property in question, search for “GIS + [your municipality].”

3. Initiate Open Communication:

Contact the property owner or manager to express your concerns about the detention pond. Approach the conversation with a respectful and collaborative tone, focusing on the potential issues you've observed and their impact on the community and environment. Provide clear, concise information and be prepared to share your documentation if requested. Open dialogue is crucial to finding a resolution.

4. Seek Local Government Support:

What to do when you feel a stormwater pond is in violation.

If the property owner or manager does not address your concerns adequately or fails to take action, you may need to escalate the matter to local government authorities. Research the local governing body responsible for overseeing stormwater management or environmental issues. Generally, the title of that office is utilities or land development. Contact them to report the problems with the detention pond, providing all relevant information and documentation you have gathered. Again, this action should be taken only when the property owner is not favorably responsive to your requests.

5. Engage the Community:

Raise awareness within your community about the issues surrounding the detention pond. Share your concerns with neighbors, homeowner associations, or local environmental organizations. Collaborating with others who share your concerns can strengthen your voice and encourage collective action. Together, you can amplify the need for appropriate maintenance and restoration efforts.

6. Be Persistent and Involved:

Resolving issues with a detention pond may take time and ongoing effort. Be patient. Stay engaged in the process, following up with property owners, managers, or local authorities to ensure progress is being made. Attend community meetings or public hearings related to the detention pond to voice your concerns and advocate for necessary improvements.

Conclusion:

If you suspect problems with your local detention pond, it's essential to take action and address your concerns. By observing, documenting, and communicating with the property owner or manager, you can initiate a dialogue that aims to rectify the issues. If necessary, involve local government authorities and engage the community to collectively advocate for improvements. Remember, open communication and persistent involvement are key to resolving problems and ensuring the proper maintenance and functionality of detention ponds for the benefit of the environment and the community.

6 Ways to Protect Water Quality

When stormwater flows through the watershed, it picks up pollutants on it's way. The rain in your yard carries off pesticides and fertilizer. The stormwater then continues onto the road where trash and oil adds to the intoxication. By the time a drop of rain reaches the ground water, it has many opportunities to be polluted. 

Contact us. Buck Outdoors repairs and maintains designated stormwater areas ain is licensed for CEPSCI.

Most likely your neighborhood has a designated stormwater area. When managed properly, stormwater areas protect the watershed. Hiring a specialist to maintain your stormwater areas is essential. However, here are a few steps you can take to protect water quality before the rain runoff gets to the stormwater area. 

• Use chemicals in accordance to labels.
• Pick up pet waste in your yard.
• Use rain barrels or other rain harvesting devices.
• Change automobile oil where the oil can be properly contained.
• Wash automobiles where water can be recycled or on the yard (never in the driveway).
• Pick up yard debris.

If you live in the upstate of South Carolina, feel free to contact Buck Outdoors to see if we can assist your property and protect the watershed.