The core of the District programs is the erosion and sedimentation control (E&S) program. The emphasis of the program is the conservation of soil and water resources. The District administers the E&S program through a signed delegation agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). As the County continues to experience economic growth, it becomes increasingly important to make sure that resources are protected according to the regulations. Due to intensifying development pressure and greater awareness for environmental protection, the E&S program continues to be one of the District's most demanding programs. Through the program, the District reviews and approves E&S control plans for earthmoving sites. Inspections of these sites are conducted to assure the plans are properly implemented, BMP's are installed, and sequences are followed. By doing this, the District strives to meet its goal of minimizing accelerated erosion and sediment pollution to the waters of the Commonwealth as a result of earthmoving activities.

The District also administers the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program. Under this program, certain earthmoving activities are required to obtain a permit. One of the items required to obtain a permit is an erosion control plan, which is submitted to the District for review. Permits are not issued until the plan is in compliance with Chapter 102, Title 25 Rules and Regulations of the Clean Streams Law. In December 1999, EPA promulgated the NPDES Phase II regulations. These regulations became effective on December 7, 2002. A major distinction between Phase I and Phase II is that Phase II regulates small construction site activity between 1 and 5 acres where there is a point discharge to surface waters of the Commonwealth. Phase II also requires a Post Construction Stormwater Management (PCSM) Plan.

NPDES general permits may not be authorized in waters designated as "special protection" water, either partially or entirely located within a watershed. For any proposed earth disturbance activity requiring an NPDES storm water permit and located in an exceptional value watershed, a public hearing is required when there is any comment or request for a public hearing received within the 30 day public comment period in the PA Bulletin. DEP or the Conservation District may require other information necessary to adequately review a plan, or may require additional BMPs, on a case-by-case basis, when necessary to ensure the protection of water quality and existing and designated uses.

In 1998, the District directors voted unanimously to move from Level II to Level III program enforcement. Level III responsibilities includes continuing to perform Level I and II duties, plus initiating and completing enforcement actions. The district strives to work with contractors to achieve voluntary compliance for violations in the field. When this is not possible, the District will initiate an enforcement proceeding through our Level III delegation.

Erosion and Sedimentation Control Resources

Permit applications are available on DEP's website at www.dep.state.pa.us.
USDA Web Soil Survey USDA NRCS Web Soil Survey