At Clean Stormwater Inc., we provide Benchmark Monitoring Planning and Sampling Services to help facilities comply with industry-specific stormwater monitoring requirements under the NPDES Industrial Stormwater Permit. Specific industries, such as scrap yards, metal recyclers, and other facilities listed under specific SIC codes regulated by EGLE, must conduct additional benchmark monitoring to measure particular pollutants in stormwater runoff. These benchmark levels help determine whether a facility’s stormwater management practices effectively control pollution.

Benchmark Monitoring Planning & Compliance Support

  • Benchmark Monitoring Plan (BMP) Development – Creating a site-specific plan that outlines sampling procedures, benchmark parameters, and compliance strategies
  • Regulatory Cross-Referencing – Ensuring compliance with EGLE and NPDES permit requirements for industries subject to benchmark monitoring
  • Pollutant Identification – Determining which metals or contaminants must be monitored based on facility operations and SIC codes
  • Sampling Schedule & Documentation – Establishing a compliance schedule to ensure all required samples are collected and reported properly

How Our Benchmark Sampling Process Works

  1. Sampling Kit Provided – We supply a complete benchmark sampling kit, similar to our visual sampling process, with detailed instructions for collection
  2. On-Site Sample Collection – Any trained staff member at the facility can collect the sample, as a Certified Storm Water Operator (CSWO) is not required for collection
  3. Shipping to Laboratory – The sample is shipped directly to our partner laboratory using pre-labeled packaging included in the kit
  4. Laboratory Analysis – The sample is tested for benchmark parameters, such as heavy metals, nutrients, and other pollutants specified in the facility’s permit
  5. Compliance Reporting – Once results are received, Clean Stormwater Inc. compiles the data into a detailed benchmark monitoring report, providing analysis, interpretation, and compliance recommendations

Why Benchmark Monitoring is Important

  • Regulatory Requirement – Facilities in industries such as scrap yards and metal recyclers (SIC Codes 5015, 5093) must meet benchmark monitoring obligations under EGLE’s stormwater permit
  • Pollution Control Verification – Measures specific pollutants in stormwater runoff and ensures BMPs are effectively reducing contamination
  • Avoiding Violations & Enforcement Actions – Helps facilities stay ahead of compliance issues by monitoring pollutant levels before regulatory agencies intervene
  • Data-Driven Stormwater Management – Identifies trends and problem areas to improve stormwater pollution prevention measures

Benchmark Monitoring Services for Other States

While our primary focus is Michigan, we assist facilities in surrounding states with benchmark stormwater monitoring and compliance. Many states require industry-specific benchmark sampling as part of their NPDES stormwater permits, and we ensure facilities remain compliant regardless of location.

By working with Clean Stormwater Inc., you receive a cost-effective, streamlined benchmark monitoring program that eliminates unnecessary expenses while ensuring full regulatory compliance. Contact us today to discuss your facility’s benchmark monitoring needs.

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