The core of the District programs is the erosion and sedimentation control (E&S;) and stormwater management 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 PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Cumberland County is a level three county in the delegation. It requires us to investigate complaints, process permits, conduct education programs for the regulated community and conduct informal enforcement hearings for earthmoving sites that are unable to achieve voluntary compliance for violations to the Act. 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 determines if the E&S; control plans for earthmoving sites are adequate. Once earthmoving has begun inspections of these sites are conducted to assure the plans are properly implemented and the Best Management Practice (BMP's) are installed and maintained as required. 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. (See Cumberland County Strategic Plan)

The District also administers the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program. Under this program, all earthmoving activities proposing to disturb one acre or more of land are required to obtain a permit. The permit consists of an application, erosion control plan, post construction stormwater management plan which includes a long term operation and maintenance plan for all permanent BMP's.

There are two types NPDES permits: General and Individual. Sites located in an exceptional value or high quality watershed as found in Chapter 93, Water Quality Standards or certain activities in watersheds determined to be impaired must apply for the individual permit. Other projects are eligible to use the general. See DEP guidance for more specific details.