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PRELIMINARY STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN
FOR CONSTRUCTION
OF
BLACK OAK WIND POWER PROJECT
Tompkins County, New York
Prepared for
Black Oak Wind Farm, LLC
863 Hayts Road
Ithaca, NY 14850
Prepared by
274 North Goodman Street
Rochester, New York 14607
585-271-0400
Fax: 585-271-0042
www.edrcompanies.com
Diversion of surface water away from exposed soils provides the most economic and
effective erosion control possible since it is more advantageous to control erosion at
the source than to design controls to trap suspended sediment.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 1
1.1 SWPPP Contents ....................................................................................................... 1
1.2 General Project Description ....................................................................................... 2
1.3 Soil Resource Summary ............................................................................................. 2
1.4 NYS Historic Preservation Office Requirements ........................................................ 8
1.5 Roadway Reconstruction ........................................................................................... 9
1.6 Riparian Buffers .......................................................................................................... 9
2.0 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES .......................................................... 10
2.1 Erosion and Sediment Control ................................................................................. 10
2.2 Vegetative Erosion and Sediment Control Measures .............................................. 10
Temporary Seedings......................................................................................... 11 2.2.1
Permanent Seedings ........................................................................................ 11 2.2.2
Vegetating Waterways ...................................................................................... 11 2.2.3
Mulching ............................................................................................................ 11 2.2.4
Protecting Vegetation During Construction ...................................................... 11 2.2.5
2.3 Structural Erosion and Sediment Control Measures ................................................ 11
2.4 Temporary Structural Measures ............................................................................... 12
Temporary Swale .............................................................................................. 12 2.4.1
Water Bar .......................................................................................................... 12 2.4.2
Silt Fence .......................................................................................................... 12 2.4.3
Check Dam ....................................................................................................... 12 2.4.4
Sediment Trap .................................................................................................. 12 2.4.5
Stabilized Construction Entrance ..................................................................... 13 2.4.6
Stabilized Equipment Staging Area .................................................................. 13 2.4.7
Construction Road Stabilization ....................................................................... 13 2.4.8
Temporary Access Waterway Crossing ........................................................... 13 2.4.9
Sump Pit for Temporary Dewatering ................................................................ 13 2.4.10
Perimeter Dike/Swale ....................................................................................... 14 2.4.11
Brush Barrier ..................................................................................................... 14 2.4.12
Pipe Slope Drain ............................................................................................... 14 2.4.13
2.5 Permanent Structural Measures............................................................................... 14
Diversion ........................................................................................................... 14 2.5.1
Grass Waterway ............................................................................................... 14 2.5.2
Culvert Installation ............................................................................................ 15 2.5.3
Stone Lined Waterway ...................................................................................... 15 2.5.4
Rock Outlet Protection ...................................................................................... 15 2.5.5
Landgrading ...................................................................................................... 15 2.5.6
Surface Roughening ......................................................................................... 15 2.5.7
2.6 Stormwater Management Practices ......................................................................... 15
Open Stormwater Channels ............................................................................. 15 2.6.1
2.7 Operation and Maintenance of Erosion and Sediment Control ............................... 16
and Stormwater Management Practices .............................................................................. 16
3.0 Construction Activities .................................................................................................. 19
3.1 Construction Phasing Schedule ............................................................................... 19
3.2 Disturbance Limits .................................................................................................... 20
4.0 SITE WASTE MANAGEMENT AND SPILL PREVENTION ........................................ 21
4.1 General Materials Handling Practices ...................................................................... 21
4.2 Specific Materials Handling Practices ...................................................................... 21
4.3 Spill Response .......................................................................................................... 22
4.4 Spill Notification Procedure ...................................................................................... 23
4.5 Nutrient Management ............................................................................................... 23
5.0 SITE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................. 24
5.1 Project Management ................................................................................................ 24
5.2 Construction Site Inspection ..................................................................................... 24
5.3 Construction Site Record Keeping ........................................................................... 25
6.0 TERMINATION OF PERMIT COVERAGE .................................................................. 26
7.0 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................. 27
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Area
Figure 2: Project Area Soils
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A: Temporary Structural Measures
Appendix B: Permanent Structural Measures
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Black Oak Wind Farm, LLC (the Project Owner), is proposing to develop the Black Oak Wind
Power Project (Project), a wind-powered generating facility in the Town of Enfield, Tompkins
County, New York. The Project is located east of the Tompkins-Schuyler county line,
bordered to the north by Harvey Hill Road, to the south by Cayutaville Road, and to the
southeast and east by Griffin Road (see Figure 1).
Prior to construction, the Project Owner will prepare a complete Stormwater Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The purpose of the SWPPP is to describe the erosion and
sediment control practices that will be implemented during construction activities and the
stormwater management practices that will be used to reduce the pollutants in stormwater
discharges after the Project construction has been completed.
This document will provide a preliminary summary of the Project SWPPP.
In New York State, the primary objective of a SWPPP is to comply with the current State
Pollution Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) General Permit for Stormwater Discharges
from Construction Activities. This will be done by:
• Assessing the physical characteristics of the site to determine how it can be
developed with the lowest risk of environmental damage.
• Minimizing impacts by maintaining vegetative buffer strips between disturbed and
adjacent areas.
• Providing an erosion and sediment control plan that emphasizes controlling runoff
and stabilizing soil as its main component, and sediment control as a management
practice. The reduction of soil loss reduces the risk of degrading natural resources.
• Managing the impact of stormwater runoff on the water quality of the receiving
waters.
• Controlling of the increased volume and peak rate of stormwater runoff during and
after construction.
• Operation and maintenance of erosion, sediment, and stormwater management
practices during and after construction.
This preliminary SWPPP is prepared in accordance with the following guidance documents:
• New York State Standards and Specifications for Erosion and Sediment Control,
(NYS Standards), New York State Department of Environmental Conservation,
August 2005.
• New York State Stormwater Management Design Manual, New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation, (NYSDEC), August, 2010.
1.1 SWPPP Contents
The SWPPP will include the following required information:
1. Description of the Project location, type and size.
2. Description of the erosion and sediment control practices, and where required, post-
construction stormwater management practices that will be constructed.
3. Site map showing all facilities to be constructed, areas of disturbance, existing
vegetation, water resources, existing and proposed grading, soil types, spoil and
borrow areas, and stormwater discharge locations.
4. Description of the soils.
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5. Construction phasing plan that includes sequencing of erosion and sediment control
practices.
6. Erosion and sediment control plans and details.
7. Site map(s) showing the location, dimensions, material specifications, installation
details, and operation and maintenance requirements for all erosion and sediment
control and post-construction stormwater management practices and structures.
8. SWPPP Inspection schedule.
9. Waste management and spill prevention measures.
10. Description of any stormwater discharges anticipated at the site other than from
construction activities.
11. Identification of erosion and sediment control and stormwater management practices
that are not in conformance with NYS Standards and discussion that demonstrates
that the alternate design(s) are equivalent to the Standards.
12. Detailed summary of engineering design criteria.
1.2 General Project Description
The Project includes 7 wind turbines, which will deliver up to 14 MW of electrical power to the
New York state grid. As presently envisioned, the Project will use the REpower MM100 wind
turbine (or equivalent) with a rated capacity of 1.8 MW. Each turbine will include a three-
bladed upwind rotor, with a diameter of 100 meters (328 feet), mounted on an 80-meter
(262.5-foot) tubular steel tower. The Project will also involve construction of approximately
2.5 miles of gravel access roads, approximately 4.2 miles of buried electrical collection lines,
a collection substation, and one permanent meteorological tower. To service the facility, an
operations and maintenance building (O&M facility) will house operations personnel,
equipment and materials, and provide staff parking.
Project construction is anticipated to occur in a single phase. Pending the receipt of all
required permits, construction is scheduled to start in the summer of 2014 and be completed
by December 31 of that year. A radius of up to 200 feet will be cleared around each tower, a
100-foot wide corridor will be cleared (or forested vegetation trimmed) along access roads,
and a 25-foot-wide corridor will be cleared along underground electric collection lines that are
not adjacent to access roads.
1.3 Soil Resource Summary
Clay is composed of mineral soil particles less than 0.002 millimeters in diameter. Silt is
composed of individual rock or mineral fragments that range in diameter from the upper limit
of clay to the lower limit of very fine sand. Sand is composed of individual rock or mineral
fragments in soils ranging from 0.05 to 2.0 millimeters in diameter.
Loam is soil material that is 7 to 27 percent clay particles, 28 to 50 percent silt particles, and
less than 52 percent sand particles. Different names are given to soils with slightly different
proportions of sand, silt, and clay: sandy loam, silty loam, clay loam, sandy clay loam, silty
clay loam, and loam. Loam soil retains nutrients well.
Channery soil contains thin, flat fragments of sandstone or siltstone, as much as 6 inches in
length along the longer axis.
A fragipan is a loamy, brittle, subsurface layer of soil that is very low in organic matter and
clay but is rich in silt or very fine sand. The layer seems to be cemented when dry, has a
hard consistence, and has a high bulk density in comparison to the soil layers above it. Bulk
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density is a measure of the weight of the soil per unit volume. When moist, a fragipan tends
to rupture suddenly if pressure is applied.
Till is unsorted, non-stratified glacial drift consisting of clay, silt, sand, and boulders
transported and deposited by glacial ice.
The following soils, which are presented in alphabetical order, are mapped within the limits of
the Project Area (descriptions obtained from the USDA’s Soil Survey of Tompkins County
accessed on December 19, 2012). A map of the following soils may be referred to in Figure
2.
• Alluvial Land: This miscellaneous land type consists mostly of unclassified soils. It is
not feasible to map these areas separately. Alluvial land consists of very recent
alluvium adjacent to streams. The streams cut and erode these areas during floods,
shifting material from one place to another. Some areas include stony or gravelly
material; other areas are free of coarse fragments. Within short distances the
drainage ranges from nearly well drained to very poorly drained.
Because these soils are adjacent to streams, are frequently flooded, and have such
a wide range in drainage, they have very low potential for agricultural use. Most
areas are left in brush and weeds. Some support water tolerant trees, such as willow
and sycamore.
• Bath and Valois gravelly silt loams, 5 to 15 percent slopes: An area of this mapping
unit may consist of Bath gravelly silt loam, of Valois gravelly silt loam, or some of
both. These soils occupy either moderate uniform slopes or the complex slopes of
small knolls. At the base of knolls or on gentle slopes, a thin zone above the
fragipan may be mottled. These spots are inclusions of Langford or Mardin soils.
These soils are suited to most crops commonly grown in the county, to pasture, or to
forest. They have moderate limitations as cropland. They are also among the best
sites in the uplands for housing.
Their slope causes moderately rapid runoff and loss of water that crops need in
midsummer. Slope also creates a moderate erosion problem.
• Bath and Valois gravelly silt loams, 15 to 25 percent slopes: These are moderately
steep soils on which modern machinery can be used only with difficulty. About 50
percent of this unit has lost 4 to 6 inches of soil by erosion. On most of the remaining
acreage, erosion losses have been too small to be measured. Some spots, however,
have lost as much as 12 inches.
The slopes limit the use of this unit. The soils can be used for crops, pasture, or
forest, but farming operations are difficult. Selected sites that have favorable
topography are suitable for housing.
Runoff is moderately rapid or rapid. Consequently, these soils are more subject to
drought than are Bath and Valois soils on less steep slopes. Runoff also contributes
to a serious erosion hazard. Structures to divert excessive runoff are needed to
protect many of the areas.
• Bath and Valois soils, 25 to 35 percent slopes: This mapping unit is mainly on steep
valley sides and steep hills in valleys. In many places it is on the steep slopes where
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streams have made broad V-shaped landforms in deep glacial till. The significant
features of this mapping unit are steep slope, good drainage, moderately good water-
holding capacity, strong acidity, and moderate fertility.
Slope is the factor that limits the use of these soils. They are too steep to be
cultivated safely with modern machinery. Most of the acreage is used for pasture or
forest.
• Bath channery silt loam, 5 to 15 percent slopes: This soil is the most extensive of the
Bath soils in the county and is typical of the central part of the well-drained range. It
is near the crests of hills or on distinctly convex slopes where water does not
accumulate. In some places, the slope is crossed by shallow drainways and the
hillside has a distinctly rolling character.
This soil is suited to crops, pasture, or forest, but the management it requires is
moderately demanding. This soil is among the better sites in the uplands for many
non-agricultural uses such as housing.
Runoff is moderately rapid, and erosion is a problem.
• Bath channery silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes: This moderately steep soil is mainly
within the drier half of the drainage range for the series. Though some areas have
hilly, complex topography, most are on hillsides that slope dominantly in one
direction. Intermittent streams cross many areas at right angles to the contour. Spots
of wet soil occur along these small streams.
This soil can be used for crops, pasture, or forest. Long-term hay and pasture are
among the better uses.
These soils are typically steep enough that use of machinery is very difficult. The
amount of erosion was not differentiated in mapping this soil. The water holding
capacity is less than that of the less strongly sloping Bath soils.
• Chenango gravelly loam, fan, 0 to 8 percent slopes: This soil occurs where streams
of steep gradient emerge from the uplands. Rapidly running water has carried rock
fragments downhill and deposited them where the stream emerges onto the valley
floor. The fragments are largest and the deposits deepest at the apex of the fan, at
the foot of the hill. The fan slopes gently toward the middle of the valley and spreads
laterally along the foot of the hill.
This soil is among the best in the county for crops, pasture, or forest. It is also among
the best sites in the county for some nonagricultural uses, such as building sites.
Some areas are subject to streambank erosion, and special control practices are
needed. The slope is strong enough, especially near the apex of the fan, that sheet
erosion is a slight problem.
• Ellery, Chippewa, and Alden soils, 0 to 8 percent slopes: This is an undifferentiated
unit, a given area of which may consist of any one, any two, or all three kinds of the
named soils. All of these soils are wet. Ellery and Chippewa soils are poorly drained.
Alden soils are very poorly drained. They have a mucky surface that is very high in
organic-matter content. Ellery and Chippewa soils have a mineral surface soil that is
high in organic-matter content but is not mucky.
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Most areas of this mapping unit are too wet for cultivation. Some areas are in
permanent pasture. Some of the larger areas are forested with water-tolerant
species.
• Erie channery silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes: This soil represents the central half of
the drainage range for the Erie series. Predominantly, it is typical of the soils
described for the series. It occupies gently sloping areas that have slight or no
undulations. It typically receives runoff from higher lying land, but it has enough slope
that runoff removes some of the excess water.
Erie soils generally are not highly productive, but this is one of the better soils in the
series. It can be used for crops, pasture, or forest. Wetness imposes very severe
limitations on the use of this soil for housing.
• Erie channery silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes: This soil is in the drier half of the
drainage range for the series. It is saturated for shorter periods after rains than the
less strongly sloping soils, because the slope is strong enough that a significant
amount of water runs off the surface. This soil typically occurs on the sides of valleys,
adjacent to better drained soils at higher elevations. Its wetness is caused partly by
seepage water and runoff from the higher soils. It slopes in one direction, but is
crossed by drainways in slight depressions. Along these drainways wetter soils and
the poorly drained Ellery soils may occur.
This soil is suited to crops, pasture, or forest. The slope allows diversion of water if
these areas are to be used for housing. Septic tank sewage disposal is very difficult
to establish.
The slope makes the use of farm machinery moderately difficult. Both wetness and
erosion are critical problems. A large volume of water crosses the area and the rate
of runoff is relatively rapid.
• Langford channery silt loam, 2 to 8 percent slopes: This soil is mainly in the wetter
half of the drainage range for the series. The slope is gently undulating. Only
moderate amounts of water run off the surface. Water moves very slowly through the
fragipan, so free water stands above the fragipan longer than in more strongly
sloping Langford soils. This soil commonly occurs as very slight knolls, or on
intervening small, gently sloping areas, in a landscape that slopes gently in one
direction.
This soil is suitable for crops, pasture, or forest. It is among the better soils of the
uplands for crops, though slightly limited by wetness. Though this soil is more slowly
permeable and wetter than is desirable, it provides better sites for housing than most
upland soils in the vicinity.
Though runoff is not rapid, small spots are subject to erosion.
• Langford channery silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes: This soil is typical of the drier
two-thirds of the drainage range for the series. This soil may occupy uniformly
sloping areas on valley sides or complex rolling areas in the uplands. Small areas of
the well-drained Valois soils are commonly included in the mapped areas, particularly
on the rolling landscapes. The mapping also includes small areas that are
moderately eroded, which aggregate as much as 15 percent of some areas, and
6
areas of the somewhat poorly drained Erie soils along some drainways. Most of the
strips along the drainways are only a few feet wide. Some spots are as wet as Ellery
soils.
The soils are suited to crops, pasture, or forest. Water runs off its slopes rapidly.
Consequently, it is more susceptible to erosion and drought than are the less
strongly sloping Langford soils. Although drainage is a problem, this soil provides
building sites that are much superior to those on most of the soils of the uplands.
Potential erodibility and potential drought make control of water important.
• Lordstown channery silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes: This is a moderately deep,
well-drained soil in which depth to bedrock ranges from 12 to more than 40 inches.
This soil occurs mainly on the sides of the valley in association with other Lordstown
soils. The layers over bedrock below this soil lie almost horizontally. Hard thin layers
appear to have resisted ice action. On the slopes, they are covered with only a thin
mantle of soil. Between such hard layers, the softer shales have been worn away,
leaving a steplike bedrock surface. Soil material has partly filled these steplike
spaces between adjacent hard layers of rock. In these places the soil may be more
than 40 inches thick. Consequently, the depth to bedrock ranges from 12 to more
than 40 inches within a few feet in many of the areas.
This soil can be used for crops only with great difficulty because of the moderately
steep slopes. Much of it is used for long-term hay or permanent pasture. Many areas
are forested, and some are idle. Many of the steepest areas are probably best suited
for forests.
The slopes are steep enough that runoff is rapid and erosion is a serious problem.
• Lordstown channery silt loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes: This is a steep, well-drained,
shallow to moderately deep soil. The depth to bedrock is extremely variable within
short distances. In most areas the bedrock surface forms a series of huge steps. The
soil material covers the bedrock and forms a uniform slope. The surface of each step
is a nearly level layer of hard sandstone. At the edge of each step, the soil covering
is thin. At the base of each step, the covering may be 4 or 5 feet thick.
Most of the areas are forested. Some areas are pastured, and most of these have
been moderately eroded.
• Lordstown soils, 35 to 70 percent slopes: The very steep, fo rested valley sides that
are conspicuous in the southern half of the county are the main areas of this
mapping unit. The bedrock typically forms a series of huge steps on the very steep
slopes. A thin mantle of soil covers most of the area, but bedrock ledges crop out in
many places. The depth of soil ranges from none to as much as 4 or 5 feet within
short distances. In most places the soil is covered with a litter of both small and large
flat stone fragments.
These soils are too steep for uses other than forestry, wildlife, or recreation.
• Mardin and Langford soils, 15 to 25 percent slopes: Any given area of this mapping
unit may consist of moderately steep Mardin soils, of moderately steep Langford
soils, or a mixture of the two. The differences between the two soils that are
significant on more gentle slopes have little significance on moderately steep slopes.
7
They have moderate water-holding capacity, are moderately well drained, and have
a fragipan less than 20 inches below the surface.
This unit is suited to pasture and forest. It can be used for crops only with great
difficulty. It presents only moderate problems of water control if used as building
sites.
Runoff is rapid; sheet erosion and shallow gullying can occur if the water runs
unimpeded. It is estimated that about 50 percent of this mapping unit has been
moderately eroded.
• Mardin channery silt loam, 2 to 8 percent slopes: The Mardin soil on these gentle
slopes is mainly in the wetter two-thirds of the drainage range for the series. This
gently sloping or undulating soil is on the uplands in the southern half of the county. It
occurs mostly in small areas that typically are adjacent to more extensive areas of
the wetter Volusia soils. Where Mardin soils are adjacent to Lordstown soils, bedrock
may be found locally only 30 inches below the surface. In most areas it is below 6
feet.
This soil can be used for crops, pasture, or forest. This soil presents moderate, but
not extreme, problems of water control for nonagricultural uses, such as housing.
• Mardin channery silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes: This sloping soil is within the
middle half of the drainage range for the Mardin series. Depth to fragipan ranges
from 15 to 20 inches. The slope is generally in one direction, but the landform is
commonly a series of slight dips and rises at right angles to the general slope. Water
crossing these areas is concentrated in the low places, but it is not confined to
channels.
The soil is suited to crops, pasture, or forest.
Spring wetness is a less serious problem than on gently sloping Mardin soils, but
midsummer drought and erosion are more serious problems. Runoff is rapid.
• Middlebury and Tioga silt loams: These two soils have been mapped together
because they are closely associated and the acreage of Tioga soils is small. The
mapped areas include some spots, too small to be mapped separately of the poorly
drained Holly soils. The wetness range is from well drained or moderately well
drained to the better drained half of somewhat poorly drained. Individual areas may
be dominated by well drained soils, by moderately well drained soils, or by mixed
soils covering the entire range of drainage described.
This mapping unit is suited to crops, pasture, or forest. Susceptibility to flooding limits
its use for many nonagricultural purposes, though the high-bottom positions are
suitable for building sites.
The unit has few special management needs. Steam bank erosion is a problem in
some areas and needs special treatment to prevent further damage.
• Volusia channery silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes: This soil is typical of the middle half
of the drainage range for the series. The depth to fragipan is about 12 inches. This
soil slopes mainly in one direction. In some areas the slope is so nearly uniform that
runoff moves across the entire area. Most areas, however, have slight undulations,
8
and water moving on the surface is diverted around slight rises, some only a foot
high. The soil on the rises is typical of the drier half of the drainage range for the
series, and spots of the moderately well drained Mardin soils may be included.
This soil is used for crops, including corn, small grain, and hay. Wetness limits its
suitability for crops that are planted early in spring. It is also suited for forest, though
wetness limits its suitability for some species. Some areas can be used for housing,
but special devices to remove water are necessary. Suitability for use as sewage
disposal fields is severely limited.
• Volusia channery silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes: This soil commonly occurs on foot
slopes on the uplands. Areas at the base of steeper slopes commonly consist of a
series of shallow water-courses and intervening higher areas. Water concentrates in
the watercourses. Seepage affects especially the watercourses and the small seep
spots that are common in the watercourses. Areas on hilltops, adjacent to Mardin
soils, are commonly drier than the areas at the base of long slopes.
This soil can be used for crops, pasture, or forest. Severe problems of water control
limit the use of this soil as building sites, but the slope is strong enough to provide
some possibility of removing excess water by gravity. This soil is representative of
the drier two-thirds of the drainage range for the series.
Although erosion has not been general, many areas have had some erosion in
watercourses where small channels have been cut to the fragipan.
• Volusia channery silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes, eroded: This soil commonly
occurs downslope from more strongly sloping Lordstown or Mardin soils, from which
it receives water both as surface runoff and seepage. It typically slopes in one
direction. Runoff follows shallow depressions down the slope. These depressions are
the wettest parts of this soil. The areas between depressions are distinctly rolling.
The eroded parts include both steep eroded areas between the watercourses and
narrow channels in the watercourses that have been cut to the fragipan.
Hay and pasture crops can be grown successfully, but growing intertilled crops is
inadvisable because of the hazard of continued erosion. Forest is a suitable use.
Serious water problems limit suitability for use as building sites, but in some places
the slope makes possible the removal of water by gravity.
Wetness in spring, dryness in midsummer, and susceptibility to further erosion limit
the use of this soil.
1.4 NYS Historic Preservation Office Requirements
The complete SWPPP will include documentation that describes:
1. Information on whether the stormwater discharge or construction activities would
have an effect on property that is listed or eligible for listing on the State or National
Register of Historic Places.
2. Results of historic places screening-determinations conducted.
3. Where effects may occur, a description of measures necessary to minimize effects
on historic places including any written agreements with governmental agencies
having jurisdiction.
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1.5 Roadway Reconstruction
It is expected that portions of the local road system will require reconstruction of intersections
and reinforcement of culverts to accommodate the delivery of wind system components.
Erosion and sediment control practices as discussed in Section 2 of this document will be
provided. Post-construction stormwater management practices will be provided if required
by NYSDEC regulations.
1.6 Riparian Buffers
The ecosystem benefits of riparian areas will be preserved by protecting existing vegetation
within 100 feet of the top of all stream banks where practicable. All temporary and
permanent waterway crossings will, at a minimum, meet the requirements of the applicable
regulatory agencies (NYSDEC, USACOE).
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2.0 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
2.1 Erosion and Sediment Control
Erosion is the wearing away of the land surface as the result of uncontrolled wind and water
energy. Sedimentation is the result of transport and deposition of eroded soil particles.
Erosion and sediment control practices are classified as either vegetative or structural
controls.
Vegetative erosion control is the system of seedbed preparation, soil amendments, plant
selection, proper timing of planting, and mulching that will optimize the chances of
successfully establishing vigorous, stable vegetation. Temporary seeding and mulching will
be utilized on all areas that will be exposed for more than 14 days. Where soil disturbing
activity has been temporarily or permanently ceased, temporary or permanent soil
stabilization measures will be installed within 7 days from the date that soil disturbance
activity has ceased. Permanent stabilization will be performed as soon as possible after
establishment of finished grade.
Structural erosion control practices may be either temporary or permanent. They are
necessary when disturbed areas cannot be promptly stabilized with vegetation. Temporary
practices are installed during construction and are removed after site stabilization has been
completed. Permanent practices may be installed during or after construction, are an
integral part of the Project design, and continue to be operated and maintained when the
Project work has been completed.
The complete SWPPP will include an erosion and sediment control plan that details the
location and necessary dimensions for vegetative and structural measures that will be used
for each stage of the Project. Retention of existing vegetation, stabilizing the land with plant
materials, and the use of structural measures will be shown. Dewatering practices for use
during installation of applicable project components will also be included.
Construction phasing notes that relate the establishment of vegetative and structural
practices and their timing relative to other construction practices, and an inspection and
maintenance plan will be provided for the site.
Erosion and sediment control measures will be inspected at least once every 7 days (or
following significant storm events) by a person knowledgeable in the principles and practices
of erosion and sediment control until all soil disturbance has ceased and a vigorous
vegetative cover or equivalent stabilization measures have been established on all disturbed
areas across the Project Area. Inspections will be in accordance with the 2010 SPDES
General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction.
Prior to beginning construction, the Project Owner will submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) in
conformance with the current SPDES regulations and obtain authorization to commence
construction activities from the NYSDEC Bureau of Water Permits in Albany.
Probable erosion and sediment control practices are discussed in the following subsections.
2.2 Vegetative Erosion and Sediment Control Measures
Factors such as soil texture and steepness affect slope stability. Topsoil will be stockpiled
for reuse after site construction has been completed. Appropriate plants will be selected to
meet the final slope and soil conditions for the site.
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Temporary Seedings 2.2.1
Temporary seedings provide erosion control protection for an interim period. Temporary
control is achieved by covering all bare ground areas that exist on the construction site.
Temporary seedings will be used where final grading is complete and it is necessary to wait
for the optimal time to establish permanent vegetation, where a disturbed site will remain
exposed for more than 14 days, when preparing for winter work shutdown, or when
permanent seedings are expected to fail because of a mid-summer drought.
Permanent Seedings 2.2.2
Establishing perennial vegetative cover on disturbed slopes subject to erosion will reduce
erosion and sediment transport. The seedbed will be prepared to promote good soil to seed
contact, remove large stones and other debris from the surface, and amended with topsoil,
fertilizer, and/or other appropriate material as necessary to promote prompt establishment of
vigorous vegetation. Seed mixtures will be appropriate to the Project Area; priority will be
given to native seed mixtures.
Vegetating Waterways 2.2.3
A natural or constructed drainage way, waterways are vegetated to safely convey excess
surface runoff from construction sites without causing erosion. Waterways will be protected
from erosion by vegetative means as soon after construction as practical. Jute mesh, stone,
or other erosion control products will be used as necessary to avoid center gullies.
Mulching 2.2.4
Hydromulch or clean (weed-free) cereal grain straw will be applied at rates recommended in
the NYS Standards to provide initial erosion control while seeding is becoming established.
Mulch will also be used alone for temporary stabilization during the dormant season (non-
growing months). Straw mulch will be applied at the rate of 2 tons/acre. Hydromulch will be
applied at the rate of 2000 pounds per acre.
All mulch placed atop permanent seedings on slopes steeper than 3:1 will be anchored with
a biodegradable rolled erosion control product installed according to manufacturer’s
directions.
Protecting Vegetation During Construction 2.2.5
Existing vegetation determined to be important for erosion control, water quality protection,
wetland protection and wildlife habitat will be preserved by limiting soil disturbance near such
vegetation and by clearly delineating the limits of construction in the field using silt fencing or
construction fencing. Limiting large areas of disturbance, and grading and stabilizing large
areas of disturbance in stages will be adopted during development of this wind power
Project.
2.3 Structural Erosion and Sediment Control Measures
Temporary structural measures are used during construction to prevent offsite
sedimentation. The permanent structures are used to convey surface water to a stable
outlet; they will remain in place and continue to function after the completion of construction.
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Runoff control structures will be the first items constructed when grading begins and will be
stabilized and fully functional before downslope land disturbance takes place. Sediment
trapping devices will be stabilized and fully functional before upslope land disturbance takes
place. Sheet flow runoff will be treated with silt fence and vegetative buffer strips. The
structural measures will be maintained so that they remain effective in their pollution control
function.
2.4 Temporary Structural Measures, from the NYS Standards and Specifications
for Erosion Control (2005) (see Appendix A for typical details).
Temporary Swale 2.4.1
A temporary excavated drainage way, temporary swales prevent runoff from entering
disturbed areas by intercepting and diverting it to a stabilized outlet or to intercept sediment-
laden water and divert it to a sediment trapping device.
Water Bar 2.4.2
A ridge, or ridge and channel, constructed diagonally across a slopping road or utility right-of-
way subject to erosion, a water bar is constructed to limit the accumulation of erosive velocity
water by diverting surface runoff at pre-designated intervals.
Silt Fence 2.4.3
The purpose of a silt fence is to reduce runoff velocity and effect deposition of the
transported sediment load. A temporary barrier of geotextile fabric installed on posts placed
on the contour across a slope, silt fence is used to intercept sediment laden runoff from small
drainage areas of disturbed soil. Silt fence installation, including its placement at intervals
along a slope, will be as recommended by NYS Standards. As allowed, silt fence will also be
placed at least 10 feet below the toe of slope to allow for maintenance and material roll
down. The area below the silt fence will be stable.
Check Dam 2.4.4
Constructed of well graded hard durable stone, 2-9 inches in size (NYSDOT Light Stone Fill),
check dams are small barriers placed across a drainage way that reduce erosion in a
drainage channel by restricting the velocity of flow in the channel. Check dams are spaced
as necessary in the drainage way so that the crest of the downstream dam is equal to the
elevation of the toe of the upstream dam. The maximum height of check dams will not be
greater than 2 feet, with the center of each check dam at least 9 inches lower than the
abutments which extend to natural ground elevation at the top of the drainage way slope.
Check dams will be anchored in the channel by a cutoff trench 1.5 feet wide x 6 inches deep
that has been lined with geotextile. The area below check dams will be stabilized with stone
or vegetation to resist erosion. Check dams will be inspected after runoff events to correct
any damage to the downstream channel, to replace missing stones, and to remove
accumulated sediment above the check dam as needed.
Check dams will be left in place permanently if they do not present a hazard to vehicles on
adjacent roads.
Sediment Trap 2.4.5
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A temporary sediment control device formed by excavation and/or embankment to intercept
sediment laden runoff and retain the sediment, stone outlet and grass outlet sediment traps
will be located so that they can be installed prior to grading within the drainage way they are
designed to protect. The outlet from sediment traps will be designed, constructed and
maintained so that sediment does not leave the trap and that erosion does not occur at or
below the outlet. Sediment traps will also be placed adjacent to dewatering activities
associated with turbine foundation construction, and will be constructed so that their outlet
discharge is directed to a stable swale or roadside ditch. Sediment traps will be designed
and detailed as required by NYS Standards.
Stabilized Construction Entrance 2.4.6
Located where traffic will leave the Project Area to a public right-of-way, stabilized
construction entrances consist of a pad of clean #2 stone at least 6 inches thick, placed upon
a suitable geotextile. They will be maintained in a condition that will prevent tracking of
sediment outside the Project Area. Provisions will be made to drain runoff away from the
construction entrance to a stable location away from the public right-of-way.
Stabilized Equipment Staging Area 2.4.7
Located where the Contractors will stockpile materials and park equipment and construction
trailers, stabilized staging areas will consist of clean #2 stone at least 6 inches thick, placed
upon a suitable geotextile. The staging areas will be constructed such that runoff is directed
to a stable outlet.
Construction Road Stabilization 2.4.8
Stable construction roads will be located to reduce erosion potential, minimize impact on
existing site resources, and allow operations to be conducted in a safe manner.
Temporary Access Waterway Crossing 2.4.9
Constructed to provide safe and environmentally responsive access across a waterway for
construction equipment, they will be used for the shortest practical timeframe, and will be
removed when the need for their use is completed. Their design and construction will be
based upon waterway geometry and the aquatic habitat.
Sump Pit for Temporary Dewatering 2.4.10
A temporary pit that is constructed during excavation and dewatering activities, sump pits will
be used as necessary to trap and filter water prior to pumping it to a stable discharge area.
Flow from Project activities and dewatering, will be routed to a stable vegetated area or
structure outside the ordinary high water line to allow removal of fine sediment and other
contaminants.
The stable outlet area or structure must be appropriate to filter sediment, able to withstand
the velocity of the discharged water to prevent erosion, sized and operated such that
pumped water will flow through a sediment removal device. Sediment should be settled prior
to discharge. The flow path should be protected to prevent mobilization of additional
sediment.
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If the collected water is contaminated with oil, grease, or other petroleum products, an
oil/water separator or collection and transport offsite will be used.
Perimeter Dike/Swale 2.4.11
The purpose of a perimeter dike/ swale is to prevent off-site storm runoff from entering a
disturbed area and to prevent sediment laden storm runoff from leaving the construction site.
It may be used on slopes up to 8 percent and will have a stable outlet, such as a sediment
basin.
Brush Barrier 2.4.12
A temporary sediment barrier constructed at the perimeter of disturbed areas of less than 1/4
acre from materials obtained from clearing and grubbing the site. This practice does not
replace a sediment trap.
During clearing and grubbing operations, equipment can push or dump the mixture of limbs,
small vegetation, and root map along with minor amounts of soil and rock into windrows
along the toe of a slope where erosion and accelerated runoff are expected. Filter fabric
may be placed over the brush barrier to provide additional sediment control.
The barrier height may be 2 to 3 feet and the width of its base should be over 5 feet, but less
than 10 feet. When the barrier is no longer needed, any filter fabric will be removed to allow
natural vegetation to be established inside the barrier. The barrier will rot away over time.
Pipe Slope Drain 2.4.13
Used where concentrated flow from surface runoff must be conveyed down a slope of 3
percent or greater in a manner that prevents erosion, a pipe slope drain will consist of an
earth dike at the entrance to a pipe extending from the top to the bottom of a slope. The
maximum allowable drainage area will be 3.5 acres. The pipe will outlet across a stone
outlet into an appropriately sized sediment trap.
2.5 Permanent Structural Measures, from the NYS Standards and Specifications
for Erosion Control (2005) (see Appendix B for typical details).
Diversion 2.5.1
A drainage way with a supporting ridge on its lower side that is constructed to intercept and
convey runoff to stable outlets at non-erosive velocities, diversions will only be constructed
below stabilized or protected areas and on slopes less than 15%. They will be sized to
convey the peak runoff from a ten year storm event.
Grass Waterway 2.5.2
Used where added vegetative protection is needed to control erosion resulting from
concentrated runoff, the grass waterways will be constructed wide and shallow and will
convey runoff without causing damage from erosion. Each waterway will have a stable
outlet. Where base flow is continuous, the channel will have a stone center.
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Culvert Installation 2.5.3
Culverts will be installed in the dry or in isolation from the stream flow by the installation of a
bypass flume or culvert, or by pumping the stream flow around the work area. Exceptions
may be granted if installing the culvert in the flowing stream reduces siltation or turbidity.
The bypass reach will be limited to the minimum distance necessary to complete the Project.
Fish stranded in the bypass reach will be safely removed to the flowing stream.
Permanent access roads across sensitive sites will employ management strategies and field
techniques that protect the riparian area’s attributes to the maximum extent practicable.
Culverts replaced within the public right-of-way will be sized according to the requirements of
the agency of government having jurisdiction.
Stone Lined Waterway 2.5.4
Where grass waterways would be inadequate due to high flow velocities, stone lined
waterways will provide for the passage of concentrated runoff without damage from erosion
or flooding. Stone lining will be constructed where steep grades, wetness, prolonged base
flow, seepage or piping would cause erosion, where damage from use by animals,
pedestrians, or vehicles preclude the use of grass waterways, or adjacent structures require
that the design flows be carried within a swale of limited space.
Rock Outlet Protection 2.5.5
A section of rock protection placed at the outlet of culverts or channels. The outlet protection
will be designed and constructed to reduce the depth, velocity, and energy of water, so that
the flow will not erode the downstream receiving reach.
Landgrading 2.5.6
Where the existing land surface is reshaped according to Project plans, a grading plan will
be provided that shows existing and proposed contours, practices necessary for erosion
control, slope stabilization, safe passage and disposal of runoff water, and the phasing of
these practices.
Surface Roughening 2.5.7
To aid the establishment of vegetative cover from seedings by reducing runoff velocities and
increasing infiltration, after finished grade is established, the bare soil surface will be
roughened by tracking perpendicular to the slope with construction equipment.
2.6 Stormwater Management Practices
Where necessary to comply with SPDES regulations, post-construction stormwater
management practices will be installed that provide both water quality treatment and
longevity in the field acceptable to NYSDEC.
Open Stormwater Channels 2.6.1
Vegetated open channels are explicitly designed to capture and treat the stormwater quality
volume within dry or wet cells created by check dams constructed within the channel. Dry
swales are preferable. Wet swales will be used only in areas with high groundwater tables.
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These open stormwater channels will be designed in accordance with the NYS Stormwater
Design Manual.
2.7 Operation and Maintenance of Erosion and Sediment Control
and Stormwater Management Practices
All erosion and sediment control and stormwater management practices will be constructed
and operated in accordance with their design and maintained to assure continued
performance of their intended function and to prevent sediment-laden runoff from leaving the
site during construction. Vegetative practices will be fertilized, limed, and mowed to maintain
a dense protective vegetative cover.
Runoff control measures such as grass waterways, perimeter dikes/swales, water bars,
check dams, pipe slope drains, sump pits, and rock outlet protection, will be the first items
constructed when clearing and/or grading begins, and will be completely functional before
downslope land disturbance begins. All temporary and permanent structural measures will
be stabilized before being considered functional.
After runoff control structures are operational and sediment control measures are in place,
clearing and grading on the rest of the site will begin.
During construction, all practices will be inspected at least every seven calendar days (or
following a significant storm event). Prior permission for disturbance will be obtained from
the NYSDEC and all practices will be inspected twice every seven calendar days if more
than 5 acres is disturbed at any one time.
Vegetative and structural measures will be maintained as required by the New York
Standards, and the New York State Stormwater Management Design Manual. The
inspection and maintenance requirements for the various practices anticipated are outlined in
the following table.
Practice Recommended
Maintenance
Recommended
Frequency
Temporary &
Permanent Seeding
and Straw Mulching
Re-seed areas failing to
establish 80% cover within one
month. If re-seeding is not
effective, use sodding and/or
erosion control blankets.
Eroded areas shall be
corrected, re-planted, and
irrigated as required.
Weekly & After
Storms
Preserving Natural
Vegetation
Inspect flagged areas to make
sure flagging has not been
removed. If tree roots have
been exposed or injured,
recover and/or seal them.
Daily
Protecting Vegetation
during Construction
If fence has been damaged or
visibility reduced, it shall be
repaired or replaced
immediately and visibility
restored.
Daily
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Practice Recommended
Maintenance
Recommended
Frequency
Temporary Swale
During growing season,
inspect grass after rainstorms.
Remove accumulated
sediments. Inspect outlets to
prevent scouring and erosion.
Weekly & After
Storms
Water Bar
Periodically inspect for erosion
and sediment. Check outlet
areas and make repairs as
needed to restore operations.
Weekly & After
Storms
Silt Fence
Repair damaged fencing.
Intercept concentrated flows &
reroute. Remove sediment
when its depth exceeds six
inches. Replace deteriorated
fencing material. Dispose of
used fencing off-site.
Weekly & After
Storms
Check Dam
Remove sediment when sump
is half-full. Check and repair
erosion around edges of dams.
Make sure prefabricated
sections are secured.
Weekly & After
Storms
Turbidity Curtain
Inspect and repair or replace.
Check anchorage. Remove
floating debris. Remove
accumulated silt, if necessary,
in a direction away from the
protected water body.
Daily
Sediment Trap
Remove sediment when it
reaches a depth of 1-foot.
Repair damage to
embankments and slopes.
Weekly & After
Storms
Stabilized Construction
Entrance and
Equipment
Staging Areas
Crushed stone shall be added
when needed. If entrance or
yard are not working to keep
streets clean, then install
wheel wash and sweep
streets.
Daily
Construction Road
Stabilization
Top dress with new stone as
needed. Check adjacent
ditches for erosion and
sedimentation. Maintain
adjacent vegetation in a
healthy, vigorous condition.
Weekly & After
Storms
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Practice Recommended
Maintenance
Recommended
Frequency
Temporary Access
Waterway Crossing
Remove and dispose of
trapped sediment and debris.
Sediment shall be disposed of
and stabilized outside the
waterway flood plain.
Weekly & After
Storms
Sump Pit
Protect from damage. Remove
sediment when it may interfere
with operation. Check for
oil/grease contamination.
Weekly & After
Storms
Topsoil Stockpile
Stabilization
Stabilize areas that have
eroded.
Weekly & After
Storms
Diversion
During growing season,
inspect grass after rainstorms.
Remove accumulated
sediments. Inspect outlets to
prevent scouring and erosion.
Weekly & After
Storms
Grass Waterway
During growth period, inspect
grass after rainstorms.
Remove accumulated
sediments. Inspect outlets to
prevent scouring and erosion.
Weekly & After
Storms
Stone Lined Waterway
Maintain to prevent
undermining or deterioration.
Vegetation next to stone lining
should be maintained in good
condition to prevent scouring if
the stone lining is overtopped.
Weekly & After
Storms
Rock Outlet Protection
Inspect for signs of scour
beneath the rock and for
dislodged rock.
Weekly & After
Storms
Land Grading
Keep benches free of
sediment; stabilize areas that
have eroded.
Monthly & After
Storms
Surface Roughening Stabilize areas that have
eroded.
Monthly & After
Storms
Open Stormwater
Channels
Remove sediment build-up
within the bottom of the swale
when 5” deep.
Maintain a grass height of 4 to
6 inches in dry swales.
Weekly & After
Storms during
Construction;
Annually thereafter.
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3.0 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
Construction of the wind power Project will include improvements to local roads, construction
of site roads, installation of electrical collection/interconnection facilities, and construction of
the wind turbines. Site improvements will proceed in an organized manner.
Excess excavated materials not used as fill will be disposed of in a manner that will not result
in erosion and adverse impacts upon surface water and wetland quality. The manner in
which the soil is disposed of will include applicable stormwater management practices.
Prior to the start of construction activity, the Project Owner will identify the contractors and
subcontractors that will be responsible for installing, constructing, repairing, inspecting, and
maintaining the erosion and sediment control and post-construction stormwater management
practices included in the SWPPP.
Each such contractor and subcontractor will identify at least one trained individual from their
company that will be responsible for implementation of the SWPPP. Each contractor or
subcontractor responsible for implementation of the SWPPP will sign a copy of the SWPPP
certification before they commence construction activity.
3.1 Construction Phasing Schedule
A schedule that establishes the construction sequence of vegetative and permanent and
temporary structural erosion and sediment control practices, and their timing relative to other
construction activities will be included. Phasing of the access road, utility, crane pad and
component lay-down area construction will likely be in a manner that facilitates the
construction of the individual wind turbine sites. A preliminary construction phasing schedule
is included below.
1. Obtain all applicable permits
2. Participate in a pre-construction meeting at least one week prior to the beginning of
earthwork operations to discuss and provide Contractor certifications for the
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
3. Survey/flag the work limits.
4. Install vegetation protection.
5. Install stabilized construction entrances.
6. Clear and grade as needed, strip and stockpile topsoil, vegetation removal/tree
clearing
7. Install stabilized equipment storage areas.
8. Construct stabilized construction roads.
9. Construct all erosion and sediment control practices. Immediately stabilize with
vegetation.
10. Construct all sediment traps. Immediately stabilize with vegetation.
11. Stabilize culvert outfalls with rock outlet protection.
12. Construct post-construction stormwater management facilities. Immediately stabilize
with vegetation.
13. Allow vegetation to become established.
14. Commence rough grading. Stockpile topsoil and excess excavated earth materials.
15. Apply temporary seed and mulch to all topsoil and excess excavated earth
stockpiles. Surround stockpiles with silt fence.
16. Construct stabilized access roads and install utility cables.
17. Excavate and construct turbine foundations. Stabilize as indicated in the contract
drawings.
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18. Construct crane pads and component lay-down areas. Stabilize as indicated in the
contract drawings.
19. Erect turbines.
20. In areas where soil disturbance activity has temporarily ceased, seed and mulch will
be applied within 7 days from the date the soil disturbance activity ceased.
21. In areas where soil disturbance activity has permanently ceased, fine grade, and
permanently seed with the appropriate seed mixtures.
22. Construct collection station/interconnection substation and the operations and
maintenance building.
23. Decommission construction width access roads (approximately 36’) to operation
width access roads (approximately 20’).
24. Tie edge of disturbance into undisturbed ground such that water drains away from
the public right-of-way without damage to the Project infrastructure and adjacent
private and public property. The maximum slopes at these locations will be 4:1 (run:
rise).
25. Remove temporary erosion and sediment control practices when the site is
stabilized.
3.2 Disturbance Limits
1. Construction activity will not disturb more than 5 acres of soil at any one time
without prior written permission of the NYSDEC. In order to be authorized to
disturb greater than 5 acres of soil at any one time, the following requirements
will be met:
a. A qualified inspector shall conduct at least two site inspections every 7 days.
The inspections must be separated by a minimum of 2 days.
b. Where soil disturbance activity has been temporarily or permanently ceased,
temporary and/or permanent soil stabilization measures must be installed
within 7 days from the date the soil disturbance activity ceased.
c. Preparation of a phasing plan that defines maximum disturbed area per
phase and shows the required cuts and fills.
d. Installation of any additional site-specific practices needed to protect water
quality.
e. Document the NYSDEC approved plans and practices as revisions to the
Project SWPPP.
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4.0 SITE WASTE MANAGEMENT AND SPILL PREVENTION
All potential pollutants other than sediment will be handled and disposed of in a manner that
does not cause contamination of stormwater. The following non-sediment pollutants may be
present during construction activities.
1. Petroleum products including fuel, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, and concrete-form oils
2. Concrete
3. Asphalt
4. Paints
5. Fertilizers
6. Herbicides and pesticides
These materials, and other materials used during construction with the potential to impact
stormwater, will be stored, managed, used, and disposed of in a manner that minimizes the
potential for releases to the environment, including stormwater.
Emergency contacts for the Project will be posted at the Project office and will be included in
the complete SWPPP.
4.1 General Materials Handling Practices
The following general practices will be used throughout the Project to reduce the potential for
spills.
Potential pollutants will be stored and used in a manner consistent with the manufacturer’s
instructions in a secure location. Hazardous material storage areas will not be located near
water courses or storm drain inlets and will be equipped with covers, roofs, and secondary
containment to prevent stormwater from contacting stored materials. Chemicals that are not
compatible (such as sodium bicarbonate and hydrochloric acid) will be stored in segregated
areas so that spilled materials cannot combine and react.
Material disposal will be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and all applicable
local, state, and federal regulations.
Materials no longer required for construction will be removed from the site as soon as
practicable.
Adequate garbage, construction waste, and sanitary waste handling and disposal facilities
will be provided to the extent necessary to keep the site clear of obstruction and stormwater
management practices clear and functional. All agencies or government having jurisdiction
will approve off-site spoil areas.
4.2 Specific Materials Handling Practices
All pollutants, including waste materials and demolition debris, that occur on-site during
construction will be handled in a way that does not contaminate groundwater or stormwater.
All chemicals including liquid products, petroleum products, water treatment chemicals, and
wastes stored on site will be covered, contained and protected from vandalism.
Maintenance and repair of all equipment and vehicles involving oil changes, hydraulic
system drain down, de-greasing operations, fuel tank drain down and removal, and other
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activities that may result in the accidental release of contaminants, will be conducted off-site.
Materials spilled during maintenance operations will be cleaned up immediately and properly
disposed of.
Any wheel wash water generated on-site will be settled and discharged on site by infiltration.
Application of agricultural chemicals, including fertilizers and pesticides, will be conducted in
a manner and at application rates that will not result in loss of chemicals to stormwater
runoff. Manufacturers’ recommendations will be followed for application rates and
procedures.
Materials that modify pH will be managed to prevent contamination of runoff and stormwater
collected on site. The most common sources of pH-modifying materials are bulk cement,
cement dust, fly ash, new concrete washing and curing waters, waste streams generated
from concrete grinding and sawing, exposed aggregate processes, and concrete pumping
and mixer washout waters.
Detergents will be used only as recommended, and their use will be limited to stabilized
areas that drain to municipal sanitary sewers or that drain into temporary containers that can
be transported to and properly discharged at a wastewater treatment plant.
4.3 Spill Response
The primary objective in responding to a spill is to quickly contain the material(s) and prevent
or minimize its migration into the groundwater and into stormwater runoff and conveyance
systems. If the release has impacted water resources, it is critical to contain the released
materials and the contaminated water and prevent their release into receiving waters.
If a spill of pollutants threatens groundwater or stormwater at the site, the spill response
procedures outlined below will be implemented in a timely manner to prevent the release of
pollutants.
The site superintendent will be notified immediately when a spill, or the threat of a spill, is
observed. The superintendent will assess the situation and determine the appropriate
response.
If spills represent an imminent threat of entering the receiving waters, facility personnel will
respond immediately to contain the release and notify the superintendent after the situation
has been stabilized.
Spill kits containing materials and equipment for spill response and cleanup will be
maintained at the site. Each spill kit will contain oil absorbent pads, oil absorbent booms, 55-
gallon drums, 9-mil plastic bags, and personal protective equipment including gloves and
goggles.
If an oil sheen is observed on surface water (e.g., sediment traps, grass swales), absorbent
pads and/or booms will be applied to contain and remove the oil. The source of the oil sheen
will also be identified and removed or repaired as necessary to prevent further releases.
The site superintendent, or his designee, will be responsible for completing the spill reporting
form and for reporting the spill to the appropriate state or local agency. A form will be
provided in the complete SWPPP.
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Facility personnel with primary responsibility for spill response and cleanup will receive
training from the site superintendent. This training will include identifying the location of spill
kits and other spill response equipment and the use of spill response materials.
Spill response equipment will be inspected and maintained as necessary to replace any
materials used in spill response activities.
4.4 Spill Notification Procedure
In the event of a spill, the appropriate notification(s) consistent with the following procedures
will be made:
Any spill of oil which 1) violates water quality standards, 2) produces a “sheen” on a surface
water, or 3) causes a sludge or emulsion must be reported immediately by telephone to the
NYSDEC Spill Hotline: 1-800-457-7362.
Any oil, hazardous substance, or hazardous waste release or spill must be reported
immediately by telephone to the NYSDEC Spill Hotline: 1-800-457-7362.
4.5 Nutrient Management
Fertilizer and limestone soil amendments will be applied at appropriate rates as determined
by soil tests or at rates indicated for Permanent Critical Area Plantings in the NY Standards.
Soil amendments will be incorporated into the upper 2 to 4 inches of soil where feasible. Soil
amendments will not be applied within 15 feet of drainage ways.
Soil erosion control practices that prevent soil amendments from being carried offsite will be
established prior to the application of soil amendments.
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5.0 SITE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
5.1 Project Management
Implementation and management of the environmental aspects of this Project included in the
SWPPP are the responsibilities of the Owner and the Contractor. Communication between
all parties performing work on the site is essential for proper implementation of the SWPPP.
The Contractor and all Subcontractors involved with site work will be familiar with the
complete SWPPP and their responsibilities under the plan.
The Contractor will obtain written authorization from the NYSDEC and the Owner’s
Representative to allow the disturbance of five (5) acres or more of soil at any one time
during the construction process.
From the beginning of construction until its completion, the stormwater treatment system will
remain operational to purify stormwater impacted by construction activities.
Activities such as grading and trenching in areas directly adjacent to a drainage way during
rainstorms could easily result in sediment-contaminated stormwater discharging from the
site. This work will be performed during dry weather and/or with the appropriate erosion and
sediment control practices.
The Contractor’s superintendent and Project manager will be familiarized with the major
elements of the plan. The Contractor will provide construction workers and others at the site
with appropriate training information at the conclusion of “tailgate” safety meetings or on an
as-needed basis. All Contractors providing services on the Project that may cause
stormwater pollution will be given a copy of the SWPPP and appropriate training regarding
stormwater pollution prevention. Subcontractor oversight to ensure compliance with the
SWPPP will be provided by the Contractor’s superintendent or Project manager. Informal,
on-the-job training should be the first level of communication followed by on site observation
of training compliance.
SWPPP inspections will be the responsibility of the Owner’s Representative. Spill reports
will be completed and submitted by the Contractor.
The SWPPP will be revised and updated to address changes in site conditions, new or
revised government regulations, and additional on-site stormwater pollution controls.
5.2 Construction Site Inspection
The complete SWPPP will be prepared in accordance with all applicable requirements and a
completed Notice of Intent (NOI) will be submitted to the NYSDEC Bureau of Water Permits
in Albany.
Before construction activities begin, authorization to discharge under the current SPDES
General Permit for Construction Activity will be obtained.
A licensed professional engineer, landscape architect, certified professional in erosion and
sediment control, or other individual endorsed by the NYSDEC who is knowledgeable in the
principles and practices of erosion and sediment control will be employed by the Project
Owner to conduct an assessment of the site prior to the commencement of construction.
This qualified inspector will verify that appropriate erosion and sediment control practices as
described in the SWPPP and as required by the Permit for Stormwater Discharges from
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Construction Activities have been installed and implemented to ensure that the site is
properly prepared for construction of the wind power facilities to commence.
During construction, when soil disturbance activities are on-going, the qualified inspector will
conduct a site inspection at least once every seven days. When soil disturbance activities
are underway and authorization has been received from NYSDEC to disturb more than five
acres of soil, the qualified inspector will conduct at least two site inspections every seven
days. When only two inspections are performed every seven days, the inspections will be
separated by a minimum of two days.
5.3 Construction Site Record Keeping
A copy of the current SPDES General Permit for Construction Activity, NOI, NOI
Acknowledgement Letter, signed SWPPP, and inspection reports will be maintained in a
secure location on-site that is accessible during working hours to an individual performing a
compliance inspection.
Construction site inspection reports will be maintained on site. They will document the
following information:
1. Description of the weather and soil conditions.
2. Condition of the runoff at all points of discharge from the construction site,
including discharges of sediment.
3. Identification of all erosion and sediment control practices that need repair or
maintenance.
4. Identification of all erosion and sediment control practices that have not been
installed correctly or are not functioning as designed and need to be reinstalled
or replaced.
5. Corrective actions that must be taken to install, repair, replace or maintain
erosion and sediment control practices and to correct deficiencies identified with
the post-construction stormwater management practices.
6. Site maps that indicate the following:
a. All areas expected to undergo initial disturbance or site work within the next
14 days;
b. All disturbed areas that have received temporary or permanent stabilization;
c. All disturbed areas that have not undergone active site work during the
previous 14-day period;
d. Location of erosion and sediment control practices required by the former
and projected site disturbance activities; and
e. Current phase of construction of all post-construction stormwater
management practices and identification of all construction that is not in
conformance with the SWPPP and NYS technical standards.
Within one business day of the completion of a SWPPP inspection, the qualified inspector
will notify the Project Owner and the appropriate contractor of any corrective action that
needs to be taken. The inspector will sign all inspection reports.
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6.0 TERMINATION OF PERMIT COVERAGE
After all construction activity identified in the SWPPP has been completed, the Project Owner
will have a qualified inspector perform a final site inspection. If the following conditions have
been met, the qualified inspector will sign the NYSDEC certification statements “Final
Stabilization” and “Post-Construction Stormwater Management Practice” contained within the
Notice of Termination (NOT):
1. All areas of disturbance have achieved final stabilization;
2. All temporary structural erosion and sediment control measures have been
removed; and
3. All post-construction stormwater management practices have been constructed
in conformance with the SWPP and are operational.
The Project Owner will ensure that the necessary post-construction stormwater management
maintenance procedures and practices are in place as required by NYSDEC.
When the above conditions have been met, the Project Owner will be eligible to terminate
coverage under the current SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from
Construction. Within 14 days of becoming eligible, the Project Owner will provide the
necessary certifications and information to submit a completed Notice of Termination (NOT)
to the NYSDEC Bureau of Water Permits in Albany.
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7.0 REFERENCES
New York State Standards and Specifications for Erosion and Sediment Control, (NYS
Standards), New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, August 2005.
New York State Stormwater Management Design Manual, New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation, (NYSDEC), August, 2010.
USDA Soil Conservation Service. 1965. Soil Survey, Tompkins County, New York.
Available at: http://soils.usda.gov/survey/online_surveys/new_york/ (Accessed December 19,
2012).