MS4 Program (1988 to 1997)

As previously mentioned, MSD and USGS partnered to collect hydrologic and water quality data since 1988. Typical chemical (nutrients, solids, dissolved oxygen, metals) and physical (temperature, flow, etc) parameters were collected or measured. Biological samples (macroinvertebrates, fish) were also collected.

USEPA issued the final NPDES Phase I regulations in November 1990 and defined a two-part municipal application process. MSD submitted Part 1 in late 1991 and Part 2 in early 1993.

Part 1 had the following components:

• Overview of MSD authority and description of authority required by regulations
• Use of ordinances and other controls to limit discharges to the Publicly Owned Treatment Works, a description of the separate storm sewer system and a description of source identification
• Existing precipitation data, existing receiving stream water quality data, field screening analysis of illicit connections and a stormwater discharge characterization plan summarizing existing monitoring analyses and plan for additional monitoring
• Description of existing structural and source control programs and illicit connection disconnection program development plan
• Description of fiscal resources dedicated to the MS4 program

Part 2 had the following components:

• Update of legal authority adequacy
• Identification of major outfall locations and inventory of industrial dischargers
• Characterization of discharges through monitoring and analysis of runoff from various land uses
• Description of proposed stormwater discharge program management including commercial and residential areas, illicit discharges, industrial discharges, and construction site erosion control

MSD was issued the first permit in 1994. This was the first NPDES MS4 Phase I permit issued in KY and in USEPA Region IV. This five-year permit included the components outlined in the application as identified above. KPDES reports were submitted for the years 1994 to 1999.

In 1995, MSD received a USEPA 104(b)(3) grant to evaluate MSD’s monitoring activities and oversight strategies for implementation of the CWA, with emphasis on improving and streamlining NPDES permits and related programs. Intended outcomes of the project included improved annual reporting based on watersheds, improved management of water quality resources, improved organizational management and increased efficiency in use of staff resources, and execution of pilot project case studies to evaluate the potential for unified permit models.

Related Links

Prior to 1988 MS4 Program Efforts
1998 to 2002 MS4 Program Efforts
2002 to July 2003 Holistic Watershed Approach

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