The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) required Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) annual report is coming due on March 31, 2024. Compiling the list of various MS4 compliance items performed throughout 2023 can be a challenge. We’ve created a summary of what to expect on this year’s report.
understanding the annual report
Public Education & Outreach
Communities are tasked with assessing their MS4 educational efforts, often in collaboration with organizations like Sweet Water and Root-Pike WIN. These initiatives play a pivotal role in raising awareness and fostering community engagement in stormwater management practices.
Public Involvement and Participation
Volunteerism is key for MS4-related activities. Municipalities document their volunteering initiatives, showcasing community involvement and dedication to environmental stewardship.
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE)
Annual reporting mandates detailed accounts of IDDE outfall inspections and any illicit discharge incidents reported. Prompt identification and mitigation are imperative to safeguarding water quality.
Construction Site Pollutant Control
Active construction sites require meticulous monitoring of erosion control measures and adherence to ordinances. Reporting violations ensures accountability and adherence to regulatory standards.
Post-Construction Stormwater Management
Tracking Best Management Practices (BMP) and addressing ordinance violations are integral components of post-construction stormwater management, aiming to mitigate environmental impacts effectively.
Pollution Prevention
An in-depth discussion on community-owned BMPs, stormwater pollution prevention inspections, street sweeping programs, catch basin sump cleaning, leaf collection logistics, and winter road de-icing efforts provides a comprehensive overview of pollution prevention strategies in place.
Internal (Staff) Education & Communication
Continuous internal MS4 training ensures staff competency and effective communication channels, fostering a culture of compliance and environmental consciousness.
Storm Sewer System Map
Updates to storm sewer systems and MS4 infrastructure require accurate mapping submissions, facilitating informed decision-making and infrastructure planning.
Fiscal Analysis
An allocated funds breakdown offers insights into resource allocation and long-term planning strategies, ensuring fiscal responsibility and regulatory compliance.
MS4 Modeling
MS4 modeling updates are needed with the installation of a new BMP device. Any MS4 modeling updates should be reported to accurately know the total suspended solids (TSS) and total phosphorus (TP) reduction the community is currently achieving.
R/M: Your partner in ms4 compliance and annual reporting
R/M offers comprehensive solutions tailored to mitigate those challenges. From completing the report on behalf of communities to tracking essential items year-round, we can alleviate the burden of your MS4 reporting. R/M assists with and/or oversees specific services that are required throughout the year to meet MS4 permit compliance. R/M can manage the data and submit results for your Annual Report, empowering your community to navigate regulatory requirements efficiently. These services include IDDE inspections, SWPPP inspections, storm sewer mapping, and MS4 modeling.
If your community is seeking assistance or further information, R/M stands ready to support your MS4 reporting endeavors. Reach out to our experts to explore how we can facilitate your journey toward comprehensive stormwater management.
about the author
abigail h. hanson
project engineer
Abby has worked with multiple communities on MS4 compliance. She has developed stormwater management plans and stormwater device modeling, oversees multiple municipalities IDDE programs, and guides follow-up inspections. Abby also has experience in field work with CRT erosion control and green infrastructure inspections..
