Energy and Environment
Stormwater Management
EPA’s stormwater regulations require a plan for public education and outreach, as well as good housekeeping practices. The complexity of the regulations, coupled with the need for interaction at all levels of government, encouraged NMCOG to play an active role in assisting its municipalities. NMCOG has adopted a more pointed focus on stormwater and is striving to increase the capacity of municipalities in complying with stormwater regulations. Stormwater management planning isn't new for our region, however, this is the first time communities have looked to address the issue in a comprehensive and cohesive manner.
NMCOG was awarded grant funding for two innovative regional stormwater initiatives which are designed to improve water quality and help municipalities comply with the EPA’s Phase II Stormwater Management Regulations:
Restoring the Merrimack River by Connecting Communities through Stormwater Education
This project educated residents and decision-makers about the effects of stormwater on the Merrimack River and empowered them to improve and protect our waterways. Together with our partner, the Merrimack River Watershed Council (MRWC), NMCOG developed stormwater public messaging and created a "How-to Manual and Train-the-Trainer Guide" that outlines the steps for creating a stormwater education and outreach program. The project was funded through an EPA Urban Waters Small Grant.
Northern Middlesex Stormwater Collaborative (NMSC)
The Northern Middlesex Stormwater Collaborative (NMSC) works to address stormwater pollution and improve water quality through increased coordination, collaboration and communication on a regional level.
For more information on NMCOG's stormwater management activities, contact Jenny Raitt at jraitt@nmcog.org or 978-454-8021 x120.