MS4 Interim Progress Certification and Annual Report Reporting Period Deadline

Introduction

The end of the year is here, and January 2 marks the end of the reporting period for both the interim progress certification and the annual report for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) operators in New York. These reports must be submitted to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) by April 1, 2025.

Reporting Schedule for Interim Progress Certification and Annual Report 2024-2025

The interim progress certification is submitted twice a year, covering six months at a time. The first half of the year’s reporting period was January 3, 2024 to July 2, 2024 and was due on October 1, 2024. The second half of the year’s interim reporting period is July 3, 2024 to January 2, 2025. The reporting period for the annual report is from January 3, 2024 to January 2, 2025. Both reports are due on April 1, 2025.

SPDES Interim Progress Certification and Annual Report Compliance Overview

The interim progress certification verifies the completion of activities in the State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) general permit, as well as what will be done to meet the upcoming deadlines. The annual report requires more of a detailed description of what has been accomplished over the past year. Some examples of what municipalities should have been focusing on, in the past six months and the past year, to stay compliant are as follows:

• Update the Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) plan and provide opportunities for public involvement in the development and implementation of the SWMP;
• Identify and eliminate sources of pollution, and inform the public about the prevention and reporting of illicit discharges;
• Review and update the focus areas, target audiences, and/or education and outreach topics;
• Update the comprehensive system mapping;
• Develop and implement a construction oversight program, as well as a prioritized list of construction sites;
• Implement good housekeeping procedures to prevent pollution, including sweeping of streets in business and commercial areas.

For the annual report, municipalities need to summarize these activities, show progress, and outline plans for the next year. For the interim progress certification, municipalities should provide updates on ongoing activities and any new initiatives.

Walden has a team of experts that can assist with your SWMP plan, your MS4 annual report and interim progress certification submissions, and any other MS4 compliance needs. Contact us at 516-980-5508, download our stormwater guide, or visit our stormwater page for more information.