The
N O I T U L O S to Pollution is you! R IE S BY S A R A H DE V
E
ACH YEAR, I ENJOY TEACHING THE NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (NPDES) STORMWATER TRAINING FOR CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL IN EACH OF THE A r DOT DISTRICTS. I see so much beauty in our State while enroute to these trainings, from the Delta’s fields to the Arkansas River Valley, to the rolling hills that climb into the Ouachita or Ozark Mountains. The preservation of the Natural State’s breathtaking views and unique geological features is dependent on all of us. We can all implement simple daily pollution prevention measures. The solution to pollution is YOU. ArDOT staff work to maintain and build roads that allow Arkansas residents and visitors to reach scenic overlooks and natural areas across the State. In their daily duties, they implement pollution prevention measures far beyond the basic trash and recycling pick-up. Construction staff work with contractors to implement Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) on each permitted construction site. At the same time, Maintenance staff implements Pollution Prevention Plans (PPPs), which include Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans and Spill Prevention Control Plans (SPCCP) at District and County headquarters across the State.
I have the utmost respect for my fellow ArDOT employees who clean up what irresponsible passersby have left behind; yet, they still greet the public with a “how can I help you” attitude. Their diligence in the good-housekeeping portion of pollution prevention does more than prevent trash but also alleviates nutrient pollution and oil spills, which are of equal importance. The maintenance and grounds-keeping staff play a direct role in each county, implementing the Pollution Prevention and GoodHousekeeping for Municipal Operations BMPs (best management practices). However, the Good-Housekeeping component is one area where the public can also assist in prevention. Pollution Prevention matters because it is a good thing and something everyone can do to protect the environment. You do not have to work for the government or be an environmental advocate to do the right thing and protect the water you drink or the rivers, lakes and streams you fish or recreate in during your leisure time. Everyone lives in a watershed and impacts water quality; we all live downstream from someone else. Individuals who own and operate cars can prevent pollution by maintaining their vehicles and preventing leaking automotive fluids from reaching groundwater or surface water sources.
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ARKANSAS HIGHWAYS MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2019
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