What are Stormwater BMPs?

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Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) are used to control stormwater from developed property. They prevent the flooding, erosion, and pollution that can result from the increased stormwater runoff that occurs after a property is developed. BMPs are used anytime there is a enough rain or snowmelt to cause runoff. So, they must always be kept ready for the next storm or snow. If not, they can cause more problems than they are intended to alleviate. BMPs that are clogged with sediment or trash, damaged by mowers or inappropriate uses, or lack enough healthy vegetation can result in flooding, erosion, and pollution.

WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES AS THE PROPERTY OWNER?

In Fort Wayne, property owners are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the BMPs located on their property. This requirement pertains not only to the BMPs themselves but also to the related components and access routes to the BMPs from a public roadway.

Regular, informal stormwater BMP inspections are the first step in ensuring the BMPs on your property are in good working order. These inspections should be done as frequently as possible. City Utilities recommends looking at the condition and maintenance needs of the common components of BMPs whenever the lawn and landscape are managed and after storms and periods of snowmelt. These regular inspections will allow you to determine and address routine maintenance needs and prevent future problems with the BMP.

HOW DO I CARRY OUT MY RESPONSIBILITIES?

City Utilities has developed a Property Owner’s Guide to Stormwater BMP Maintenance manual to help property owners properly maintain their BMP. The manual establishes the City’s requirements and procedures for BMP inspection and maintenance. It also provides guidance to help owners (and those helping them with BMP inspection and maintenance) meet the City’s requirements. Additionally, City Utilities has developed the Catching Rain BMP app to help owners find BMPs on their property and submit the required annual inspection of their BMPs.

You may use these links to download the respective applications:

ArcGIS Field Maps
Android • iOS

ArcGIS Survey123
Android • iOS

WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR ASSISTANCE?

City Utilities is here to help answer questions about your BMP inspections. We can be reached at stormwater@cityoffortwayne.org or by calling 311 or 260-427-8311.

GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

Are you a business manager or owner looking to reduce your company’s stormwater pollution? Implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) can help you make measurable progress in protecting local waterways and natural habitats.

Learn About Good Housekeeping