A web forum was held for Departments of Transportation (DOT) stormwater practitioners to discuss the lessons learned, and process improvements for temporary construction BMP practices and administrative processes regarding DOT construction projects. This was the second of three planned web forums on topics that are relevant to the implementation of DOT NPDES Programs.
The following is a brief summary of the main points discussed by each of the presenters.
- Barry Fagan, PE/PLS, CPESC, CMS4S, CESSWI, Environmental Program Engineer, Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), DOT Construction Stormwater Program EffectivenessA discussion of the program effectiveness approach that is integrated into ALDOT’s construction program was provided, as well as the management techniques they use to ensure effectiveness. ALDOT’s has developed a management approach by defining the symptoms (sediment), source (erosion), cause (water), and implementation (work) to enhance the effectiveness of their program. In addition to internal operations, communication with the environmental community, regulators, and stakeholders about ALDOT’s program and how it is implemented is essential to its success. The stakeholders’ awareness of the program and how it’s implemented has created an atmosphere of cooperation between all parties. An example of their effective communication is the information available on a website developed for the Birmingham Northern Beltline Project.
- Rob Shreeve, Deputy Director, Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA), Erosion and Sediment Control ProgramAn overview of MSHA’s construction management program was presented, including design, education, policy development and tools, and research. MSHA issues its own permits for construction projects due to the quality of its program and its robust quality assurance program. Their Erosion and Sediment Control Certification Program provides online and field training related to MSHA’s environmental commitments and stewardship. In addition, a Field Guide for Erosion and Sediment Control manual was developed to educate staff, contractors, and the environmental community on MSHA’s best erosion and sediment control practices. MSHA’s success is due in part to its commitment to excellence at every level of the organization.
- Gabe Robertson, Highway Stormwater Specialist, Nebraska Department of Roads (NDOR), Inspection and Tracking ProgramAn overview of the NDOR Construction Inspection and Tracking Program was presented. The Inspection and Tracking Program includes training and certification for all inspectors, identifying the items to track during the environmental review process, documenting inspections during the project’s construction, and reporting commitments after the project is constructed. The information contained in the inspection database was summarized. In addition, an overview of the database layout and data required was also provided.
After the presentations, the panelists addressed the questions submitted by the attendees.