Somerset Environment Committee
© Copyright 2008 Town of Somerset, Chevy Chase, Maryland
Storm water runoff is one of the greatest threats to the health of Little Falls Branch Creek and downstream waters including the Potomac River. Over time, the severity of runoff has increased. A few years ago, the Creek harbored many forms of life, but today it is largely devoid of life. The Stormwater committee examines the impact of storm water runoff from the Town, and recommends steps that can be taken to reduce that impact. The subcommittee also coordinates with other organizations addressing the same issue.
On Thursday, May 8 town attorney, Norman Knopf met with committee members to summarize legislation and town authorities regarding storm water control. We learned:
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1.Storm water control is regulated through building permits.
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2.In 1994 the town briefly built storm water management into the permitting process.
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3.The county has recently passed a storm water management bill that effectively requires a storm water management plan on new construction or additions.
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4.The county plan requires storm water management to avoid neighboring private property but is silent on discharge to public property, such as the street.
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The 1994 town ordinance:SW runoff (1994-95).pdf The MoCo (2007) law:SW runoff (5-2007).pdf
The Town’s RFP to solicit advice on effective storm water management in the town received three bids. These are now being evaluated by committee members and a recommendation will be made to the Town Council by the December Council meeting.
Based on the discussion with Norman Knopf sub-committee members are looking at storm water ordinances in other local municipalities to use as possible models for Somerset.
