July 21, 2005

The Department of Environmental Quality is pleased to announce the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Initiative (SWPPI) Workshops, being held in Clinton Township on September 7, Grand Rapids on October 11, Saginaw on October 13, and Lansing on October 27. These workshops are designed to help municipalities develop and implement approvable SWPPIs under Michigan’s Watershed Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit.

Under the watershed permit, most municipalities have already developed and submitted their Public Participation Plans, Illicit Discharge Elimination Plans, and Public Education Plans. The next approvable submittal is the SWPPI. Attendees of these workshops will learn what is necessary to complete and submit an approvable SWPPI and will hear what the DEQ recommends as important points to consider in programs to protect waterways from storm water impacts.

Whether you are a local public official, field staff, consultant, or watershed group facilitator, you should attend this workshop. Workshop attendees will receive a guidance document with many resources.

The registration fee of $50 includes continental breakfast, lunch, and workshop materials. Register online at www.michigan.gov/deqworkshops (click on “Upcoming DEQ Workshops”). For registration information, contact the Environmental Assistance Center at 1-800-662-9278, or e-mail at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised July 21, 2005 by Pat Watson