Green Infrastructure Maintenance. Applying the New Urban Stormwater Controls Operations & Maintenance Manual

The effectiveness of stormwater control measures (SCMs), or green infrastructure, over time depends on how well it is established and then how it is maintained over time. Nationwide, the largest weakness of stormwater programs is assuring initial and long-term performance of SCMs. As more SCMs have been implemented the challenges of operation and maintenance of these facilities still remains. However, much can be learned by sharing and understanding the function of these facilities so that effective maintenance activities can be proactively scheduled to ensure the performance. Successful implementation of SCMs requires good design with maintenance in mind, proper construction, and long-term maintenance. Therefore, WEF and ASCE identified the need for a comprehensive book that describes the importance of incorporating maintenance considerations in the design and construction of SCMs. The Operations & Maintenance of Stormwater Control Measures Manual of Practice (MOP) responds to the need to address program and regulatory requirements and includes a description of the elements of an inspection and maintenance program, as well as the skill sets needed in modern maintenance crews. The MOP includes a chapter focused on utility/local programs and department of transportation programs to highlight the differences and special requirements of these programs. This session will provide an interactive session that will focus on the three sections of the Urban Stormwater Control Operations & Maintenance MOP (WEF Manual of Practice No. 39; ASCE/EWRI Manuals and Reports on Engineering Practice No. 153) that cover the maintenance requirements of SCMs from design through construction and then to long-term maintenance. Specifically, these three sections include: 3.0 Design & Construction Maintenance Considerations, 4.0 Conventional SCMs and Green Infrastructure Maintenance, and 5.0 Inspection and Maintenance During and after Construction. The session will provide real-world examples from KC Water's green infrastructure program along with examples from other cities. Participants will be asked to first define their biggest maintenance challenges and then discuss what works and doesn't work. The top three maintenance challenges will then be discussed in detail using information from the MOP and other participants examples to best address each maintenance challenge.