Implementing a Sustainable Storm Water Management Program in an Urban Center - Baltimore, Maryland

Abstract

In the Chesapeake Bay, eutrophication resulting from excess nutrient loading is the main cause of poor water quality and aquatic habitat loss. Major sources of nutrients to the Chesapeake Bay include agricultural runoff, wastewater treatment plants and stormwater, specifically urban stormwater which is the focus of this research. Although reducing nutrient loads is a priority, stormwater management practices in an urban center also have the potential to improve public health and quality of life in local communities. To achieve these goals, municipalities must adopt a holistic approach to stormwater management, which includes extensive public education and outreach. Municipalities also need the knowledge to select sustainable management practices with consideration for environmental, social and economic concerns. Two specific practices which have the potential to positively impact both urban stormwater quality and public health and attitude are street sweeping and storm drain cleanouts. These practices are already implemented over a large footprint of Baltimore, Maryland and this research aims to determine how to maximize their effectiveness. Performance of these two practices is being examined through a collaborative research effort involving a literature review, a multi-state municipal survey, and an intensive field monitoring program in southwest Baltimore City. The field monitoring component focuses on nutrient and sediment loads in stormwater, and will result in improved estimates of the potential pollutant reductions possible through street sweeping and storm drain cleanout. In addition to examining water quality changes, public health effects of these practices will be investigated through a risk assessment for contaminants found in particulate matter collected from street surfaces. Results of this research will enable municipalities within the Chesapeake Bay watershed to make stormwater management decisions which reduce nutrient inputs and simultaneously improve quality of life in urban communities