The manual describes water quality problems caused by urban runoff and management practices to prevent these problems, and it suggests performance standards for local governments to assure that practices are installed. The manual also contains a model ordinance that can be adopted by local governments. In June 1992, copies of the manual were sent to over 1,500 chief elected officials of local governments. From October 1992 through March 1994, staff members made approximately 250 contacts with local officials. About a half-dozen towns have adopted the model ordinance and a number of others are in the process.
Training is an important part of any prevention program.
Sessions included 22 one-day erosion and sediment control training sessions for agency and local government personnel. 17 two-day advanced erosion and sediment control field workshops, focusing on developing a control plan for an actual construction site. Workshops included evaluating potential problems in the field, planning management practices to address specific site needs, and designing temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control practices using a team approach. Participants learned to compute the total runoff and peak runoff for small urban watersheds. 3 two-day training sessions for New York Department of Transportation design staff, as part of a major interagency effort to introduce regional staff to stormwater management concepts.