New Water Pollution Prevention Program
This new program requires existing businesses and all publicly owned sites within University Place to take measures to stop water pollution. The program is a requirement of the City's Western Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit that is issued by the Department of Ecology.
The mandate from the Department of Ecology will be met by creating an ordinance that requires the adoption of best management practices (BMPs) to prevent pollution from entering the stormwater system. When contaminated runoff enters the stormwater system, it is then carried to local waters.
BMPs that prevent pollution include operation and structural activities such as:
- Covering stored or stockpiled materials using tarps or sheds
- Regular sweeping and cleaning of material storage spaces and dumpster areas
- Training staff to understand and take appropriate actions in preventing pollution
- Construction of permanent structural treatment facilities on property if operation BMPs are not effective
What's Next?
Our hope is that this program will save businesses and public entities money and costly cleanup of spills as well as protect your investments, employees, customers, and our community.
Check back for any updates as we implement the program in 2023.