SWPPP

Ecosystems provides Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) and construction monitoring services to help contractors and landowners comply with the requirements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Systems’ (NPDES) Construction General Permit (CGP).

​

We make it easy to understand what is needed to get your project started and to avoid needless delays and the aggravation that can come from wading through the quagmire of acronyms and overlapping environmental regulations.

The first step to creating an effective SWPPP is to ask the contractor how they want to build their project. We exchange ideas for layering the Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion and sediment control on top of their construction sequence, means and methods. Our goal is to help the site work contractor create a plan that protects wetlands from turbidity and sediments, and doesn’t require unnecessary, ineffective “window dressing”.

​

Our Top 5 SWPPP Strategies are:

1. Diverting stormwater around the work area, if possible. This is the most effective way to prevent stormwater runoff from carrying pollutants from the construction site into nearby waterways.

2. Settling soil particles is more effective and economical than filtration. This can be done by using sediment basins or detention ponds.

3. Ditchline matting is cheaper and more effective than check-dams. Ditchline matting is a type of erosion control fabric that can be placed along ditches and swales to prevent soil erosion.

4. Temporary sediment traps are more cost effective than silt fence. Temporary sediment traps are made of fabric or plastic and can be placed in areas where there is a high risk of sediment runoff.

5. Topsoil should be minimally compacted, and raked loose, prior to turf establishment. This will help to improve the infiltration of stormwater runoff and reduce the risk of erosion.

6. ​

By following these strategies, you can help to protect your project from stormwater pollution and comply with the requirements of the NPDES CGP.

​

Here is some additional information about SWPPPs:

• A SWPPP is a site-specific document that identifies potential sources of stormwater pollution and describes the BMPs that will be used to prevent or control pollution.

• SWPPPs are required for all construction projects that disturb 5 acres or more of land.

• SWPPPs must be developed and implemented by a qualified professional.

• SWPPPs must be reviewed and updated on a regular basis.

If you are planning a construction project, it is important to contact Ecosystems to discuss your SWPPP requirements. We can help you develop a plan that meets the requirements of the NPDES CGP and protects your project from stormwater pollution.