NYC – DEP | By: Various Authors | GPE – October 12, 2017:

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) owns and operates one of the largest wastewater and stormwater collection systems in the world including a combined sewer system, which conveys stormwater and wastewater within the same pipe, and a separate sewer system, which conveys stormwater in one pipe and sanitary sewage in another pipe. Both systems contribute to the water quality of the waterbodies surrounding New York City and must comply with federal and state water quality standards.

The combined sewer system is currently under a Consent Order for Combined Sewer Overflows (CSO) issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

DEC issued a State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer System (MS4) Permit in August 2015, which regulates water quality impacts from the separate stormwater sewer system.

DEP reviewed their overall stormwater program to identify the many successful initiatives already in place and identify gaps that must be filled to meet new permit requirements.

Many of the initiatives in the CSO Consent Order are also required under the SPDES MS4 Permit, allowing for a more unified approach throughout the sewer system. The City also has the opportunity to integrate solutions in a cost-effective manner to comply with both sets of regulations.

The research and information gathered for this report provides a wealth of knowledge about national and international stormwater programs that enhance our understanding of innovative and integrated stormwater solutions. The knowledge will be used to refine and enhance DEP’s approach for a city-wide stormwater program.

Through the generosity of the public water sector, over 34 communities contributed and provided lessons learned, challenges, and experiences with NPDES MS4 compliance, Consent Decree compliance, flood reduction programs, and other integrated stormwater management initiatives.

Insights from this report will inform the future development of DEP’s programs and initiatives as we strive to proactively manage stormwater and wastewater in a more holistic manner.

To read full report – please click here.