Guidance to Help Feds Better Manage Stormwater
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued guidance to help federal agencies minimize the impact of federal development projects on nearby waterbodies in response to a change in law and an Executive Order.
Peter S. Silva, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Water, said, “By taking these steps to create more sustainable facilities, federal agencies can lead by example in reducing impacts in the local watershed.”
EPA worked closely with other federal agencies to develop this document, which provides background information, key definitions, case studies and guidance on meeting the new requirements of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.
Under the new requirements, federal agencies must minimize stormwater runoff from federal development projects to protect water resources. Federal agencies can comply using a variety of stormwater management practices often referred to as “green infrastructure” or “low impact development” practices, including reducing impervious surfaces, using vegetative practices, using porous pavements and installing green roofs.
EPA is using sustainable techniques for reducing the effects of stormwater runoff at its facilities, such as installing a 3,000 square foot green roof as well as using rain gardens and cisterns to capture and reuse stormwater.