What are best management practices (BMPs) in SWPPP?

Best management practices (BMPs) in a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) refer to the specific practices or structures that are intentionally designed to reduce the potential pollutants in stormwater runoff. These BMPs play a crucial role in managing and mitigating the environmental impact of stormwater, which can carry various pollutants from urban, agricultural, and industrial settings into waterways.

BMPs can include a wide range of approaches such as vegetated swales, retention ponds, filtering systems, and other innovative techniques that help capture, treat, or manage stormwater before it enters natural water bodies. The intent is to protect water quality and to comply with environmental regulations while also promoting sustainable practices.

The other options do not align with the definition of BMPs. For instance, practices that increase stormwater pollution contradict the very purpose of BMPs, which is to minimize such pollution. Similarly, methods that promote industrial expansion do not have a direct link with stormwater management, and documents outlining regulatory requirements do not qualify as BMPs themselves, even though they might provide guidelines that include the use of BMPs.