Evaluation of Urban Runoff Control Programs

Although the overall quality of U. S. waters has improved measurably since the passage and implementation of the Clean Water Act of 1972, a significant number of water bodies continue to suffer from poor water quality. Over the years, most point sources of pollution from industries and municipal treatment plants have been brought under control. However, continuing water pollution suggests that other sources, including urban runoff, contribute to water quality problems. Thus, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) now classifies urban runoff as a significant cause of water quality impairment. The Water Quality Act of 1987 requires EPA to regulate urban runoff that reaches municipal sewer systems as point sources of pollution. Under the authority of the act, EPA requires certain local governments to take measures to control urban storm water runoff. Concerned about water quality degradation in urban areas, Congress asked the General Accounting Office (GAO) to report on the amount of runoff from urban areas, particularly from roads and other impervious surfaces, and its effects on water quality. Congress further asked for an overall evaluation of the urban runoff control programs that federal regulations require of local governments, including their cost and effectiveness. During late 2000 and early 2001, the GAO reviewed numerous reports from federal and other sources, interviewed experts in the field, and visited five urban areas and the organizations affiliated with those watersheds. The five urban areas include Baltimore, Maryland, Boston, Massachusetts, Los Angeles County, California, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Worcester, Massachusetts. The results from the GAO evaluation are summarized in a report published in June 2001 and titled, "WATER QUALITY, Better Data and Evaluation of Urban Runoff Programs Needed to Assess Effectiveness."