An October 16, 2015, Montgomery County press release announced the county’s receipt of a national stormwater and green infrastructure award at the 88th Annual Water Environment Federation (WEF) Technical Exhibition and Conference. From the press release:
Montgomery County was one of six recipients of the new national municipal stormwater and green infrastructure awards at the 88th Annual Water Environment Federation (WEF) Technical Exhibition and Conference held September 28 in Chicago. Montgomery County received a gold certificate in the Phase I program management category for its multifaceted and effective Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) program and was recognized as a national leader in stormwater management.
Developed through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the award recognizes high-performing, regulated MS4s and inspires municipal government agencies to exceed requirements through innovative and cost-effective approaches.
“Montgomery County has made tremendous progress in meeting our water quality goals,” said Lisa Feldt, director of the County’s Department of Environmental Protection. “We are very grateful to be recognized on a national scale for our continued efforts to address stormwater pollution and to work to restore our streams and rivers and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. This award reflects the close coordination and cooperation among County departments, agencies and co-permittees and the strong commitment they share for watershed management, restoration and improved water quality, while also working hand-in-hand to achieve sustainable economic growth.”
Through the County’s robust MS4 program, approximately 1,030 acres of impervious area are currently being controlled by completed restoration projects. Another 2,386 acres are in the design phase. These projects – and projects installed by the development community – have resulted in a dramatic increase in stormwater management practices from three percent to 38 percent over the past five years.
Montgomery County’s Stormwater Program
