ITEM: 6

SUBJECT: STORM WATER QUALITY TASK FORCE (SWQTF) ACTIVITIES

DISCUSSION: In 1987, the Clean Water Act (CWA) was amended to require that certain discharges of storm water must be in compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permits. In order to assist the SWRCB with the implementation of this regulatory program, the American Public Works Association formed the SWQTF in 1989. Since its inception, the SWQTF has been instrumental in the SWRCB's development and implementation of a successful storm water program in the State. The SWQTF took the lead in the development of the nationally recognized "California Storm Water Best Management Practice (BMP) Handbooks" and the "Best Management Practices for Retail Gasoline Outlets".

Through its bimonthly meetings, the SWQTF provides a forum for the discussion of issues which affect all areas of the storm water program. Through its committee and subcommittee structure, the SWQTF is able to provide guidance and input on subjects as diverse as CWA reauthorization to BMP implementation. Participation in the SWQTF is open to any person with an interest in the storm water program. As a result, participants in the SWQTF meetings represent regulatory agencies, local agencies, industry including construction, consultants, and citizen groups.

Because of its success, the SWQTF has become a model utilized by other states in implementing storm water and other regulatory programs. The SWRCB's storm water program looks forward to the continued input of the SWQTF.

POLICY ISSUE: This is an information item only. The SWRCB will not be asked to make a decision at this time.

FISCAL IMPACT: None at this time.

RWQCB IMPACT: N/A