The Water Quality section performs a number of functions relating to preservation of the beneficial uses of surface waters. The primary function of this group is to coordinate and support County actions in compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permit held by the County. This involves coordination between County departments that have a role to play in implementing the programs outlined in the permit. Personnel also participate in development and review of legislation at the local, State and Federal levels.
In support of the County's Capital Improvement Program which constructs large regional stormwater facilities, the Water Quality group provides pre-and post construction flow and groundwater monitoring, as well as soil and sediment monitoring where deemed necessary. We also provide sampling and monitoring services to the Road Maintenance and Transportation departments on an as needed basis. Technicians also respond to citizen concerns by investigating potential problems, and inspect businesses and industries for compliance with local laws which require that nothing but unpolluted stormwater enter the County's stormwater system. Technicians also inspect all major private stormwater systems installed since 1997 under the Maintenance Agreement Program, and in 2005 will begin inspecting systems built prior to 1997..
Since 2003 the County has planned for the arrival of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the area. Water Quality personnel coordinated with local and state health agencies and developed a strategy for dealing with mosquitoes in County stormwater facilities.
