Walden conducts Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) annual refresher training for several municipal clients, where we discuss the importance of eliminating illicit discharges and meeting the minimum control measures to protect local surface waters. The purpose of the training is to ensure that the Villages deploy trained staff to enforce the permit and MS4 program requirements. Walden’s training encourages the Villages to educate the public on the impacts of storm water pollution and steps that can be taken to reduce such pollution. Training covers how to control sediment at construction sites and outlines the elements that should be addressed to prevent the contamination of stormwater runoff leaving a construction site. Training also includes education on how MS4 is implemented and the importance of public education and outreach to increase the amount of informed public involvement. Public support is beneficial when operators of small MS4s attempt to institute new funding initiatives for the program or seek volunteers to help implement the program. The result is increased compliance with the program as the public becomes aware of the personal responsibilities expected of them and others in the community, including the individual actions they can take to protect or improve the quality of area waters. Walden’s trainers also discuss resident and Village responsibilities for successful stormwater management.
In addition, Walden handles MS4 annual reporting which summarizes the activities performed throughout the reporting period (March 10 to March 9). In the annual reports, Walden evaluates the compliance with the MS4 permit conditions and summarizes how the Villages meet the measurable goals set by the storm water management program’s six minimum control measures (MCMs). EPA states that goals “should reflect the needs and characteristics of the operator and the area served by its small MS4. Furthermore, they should be chosen using an integrated approach that fully addresses the requirements and intent of the minimum control measure.” Walden’s continued MS4 compliance work with municipal clients helps them achieve these goals.