What does NPDES stand for in the context of stormwater management?

In the context of stormwater management, NPDES stands for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. This program is crucial for controlling water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States. Implemented under the Clean Water Act, the NPDES permits require entities, such as industries, municipalities, and construction sites, to obtain permission before discharging any contaminants to ensure that these activities do not harm water quality.

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System plays a pivotal role in promoting better stormwater management practices, aiming to reduce the volume and toxicity of polluted runoff entering waterways. This system sets benchmarks for water quality improvement and supports the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) to mitigate the adverse effects of stormwater runoff on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Understanding NPDES is essential for compliance with environmental regulations and contributes to broader efforts in sustainable water management.