Watch the video or read below.
Welcome back to Grate Expectations. Today, we’re in the ‘Crossroads of America’—Indiana. Known for its diverse landscapes and expansive roadways, Indiana faces unique challenges in stormwater management.
Let’s explore how the Hoosier State handles its MS4 requirements and strives for water quality excellence.
(in case you missed it, check out our Part 2 video here)
Indiana meets its MS4 needs under the authority of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, or IDEM. The agency ensures municipalities comply with federal and state stormwater regulation. IDEM partners with local governments to deliver impactful MS4 programs that are tailored to address particular needs of unique communities. They also work with municipalities through providing advice, support, and sometimes funding for managing the stormwater efficiently.
Indiana has embraced green infrastructure as a solution to some of its stormwater problems. The systems not only clean stormwater but also add beauty and promote urban biodiversity.
Indiana's MS4 plan is heavily dependent on education. Through educating communities - especially student populations - the State offers long-term opportunities for improving water quality and maintaining and upgrading stormwater infrastructure.
Focusing locally on hands-on and innovative MS4 practices that are appropriate to the environmental conditions is the best approach. Whether retrofitting systems already in place or designing new stormwater systems, the approach needs to be integrated.
Monitoring and servicing daily, the cities of Indiana employ the most up-to-date technologies to make their systems efficient and to instantly address any issue as soon as it arises.
Indiana's progressive approach to MS4 management demonstrates how responsive and committed solutions can help water management practices be sustainable. We can all be a part of it by remaining informed, becoming active, and advocating best practices in our communities.
Thanks for watching, and join us for the next installment of Grate Expectations where we will dig deeper into stormwater management strategy.
Every little bit counts towards cleaner water!
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