Identifying BMPs that you will install at your facility is a SWPPP requirement. Document in your SWPPP which BMPs you will be installing at your facility.

There are 3 different types of BMPs you may choose to implement at your facility:

  1. Non-structural BMPs (good housekeeping, moving products/wastes indoors, etc.)
  2. “Off-the-shelf” structural BMPs (simple, easy-to-install BMPs)
  3. Structural BMPs (more complex, may take time and/or money to install)

Consider non-structural BMPs and simple structural BMPs that can be implemented easily and affordably at your facility. Keep a few things in mind as you review the suggestions:

  • Are the BMPs appropriate for my facility size/industrial activity/significant material?
  • Are the BMPs I’ve chosen the most cost effective to install?
  • Is there another BMP that is simpler/cheaper to get the job done?
  • Does the BMP have to be maintained and do I have the staff/time to maintain it?
  • Is there something I can do to eliminate (prevent) precipitation from coming in contact with my industrial activity/significant material in the first place?

Again, think No Exposure!

Consider simple structural BMPs. The Minnesota Erosion Control Association has a list of structural BMPs and companies that install them. Assess which BMPs you selected before you begin implementing them.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Which ones are the easiest to implement, or take the least amount of time to install?
  • Which ones will require the most time/money?
  • Which ones will have the most significant impact on improving your stormwater runoff?

It may happen that you will want to choose different BMPs, once you start installing or implementing them. That’s okay! Just be sure to update your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Information on installing BMPs depends on which BMPs you choose. Again, referring to the MPCA's Industrial Stormwater BMP Guidebook to get a sense of how to install structural BMPs.

BMP Links/guidance documents:

  • Industrial Stormwater Best Management Practices Guidebook (7/2015)
  • Best Management Practices for Industrial Stormwater Pollution Control (Sacramento County, California)
  • Best Management Practices for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities (Oregon, 2013)
  • Mississippi Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Guidance Manual for Industrial Facilities
  • EPA’s Developing Your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, a Guide for Industrial Operators

This page was last edited on 6 December 2022, at 23:28.