Work is underway to update Clark County’s program to prevent or reduce water pollution caused by stormwater runoff from sources such as construction sites, roads and parking lots. The county will be required to submit an updated program plan to the Washington Department of Ecology by February 2008 showing what actions will be taken to meet requirements contained in a permit the state environmental regulation agency issued last February.
The Phase 1 Municipal Stormwater Permit, also known as the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, sets out specific actions necessary to control, treat and monitor stormwater runoff before it reaches county rivers and streams and groundwater.
Clark County, along with other jurisdictions, has appealed certain portions of the Ecology permit.
The county has formed a Stakeholder Advisory Group and a related technical group specifically to help revise existing county stormwater ordinances, and develop new code language to support future low impact development in unincorporated Clark County. The Clean Water Commission, appointed by the Board of Clark County Commissioners, will provide public oversight for the entire stormwater program update.
For more information about the update process, visit the Public Works website at www.clark.wa.gov/water-resources/index.html or call Clark County Public Works, Water Resources at 360-397-6118, ext 4345 to have your name and address placed on a list to receive information about the stormwater management program.
