Development of Streamlined Electronic MS4 Reporting System and associated Stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP) Tracking System.

The need for reporting and tracking systems was identified by Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) during collaborations with municipalities on how to improve stormwater management across watersheds. Our collaborations indicated that municipalities are looking for tools that provide more effective and efficient ways to manage stormwater programs and meet MS4 regulatory requirements. One desired outcome is a Streamlined Electronic MS4 Reporting System that could offer benefits such as:

For MS4 municipalities For PA DEP
• A simpler way to organize their MS4 activity reporting.
• Comprehensive list of activities that document MS4 compliance.
• Regular reminders and technical assistance.
• Option of submitting their MS4 reports electronically • PADEP staff can use the website to provide guidance and resources.
• Data from MS4 reports can be analyzed and shared more efficiently.

A second desired outcome is a Stormwater BMP Tracking System, specifically if a municipality is responsible for many small on-site BMPS. It can be a challenge to track, maintain, and enforce BMP facilities, but if this is not done, the facilities can fail to manage stormwater adequately. We propose to develop a BMP tracking system that will identify location, ownership, maintenance needs, and monitoring or enforcement practices. The goal would be to minimize time and effort, and maximize effectiveness. The system would trigger periodic letters to BMP owners describing maintenance requirements, ensure that purchasers are informed of those requirements, and identify monitoring methods and frequency.

PEC is now embarking on the development phase of this initiative. We are reviewing reporting and tracking systems develop locally or in other states. We are collaborating with GreenTreks Network Inc. to develop a reporting platform that could be installed on the StormwaterPA website (http://www.stormwater.... We are involving PA Department of Environmental Protection and Montgomery County Planning Commission representatives. Most importantly, we are interested in engaging a variety of southeastern Pennsylvania municipalities in this initiative. We need to confirm municipal needs and get your input and participation, leading to the development over the next 6 months of an effective, efficient, and useful reporting and tracking system.

For more information please contact PEC through Mindy Lemoine (215-592-7020 ext 109) or Paul Racette (215-592- 7020 ext 112).