In recent weeks, we have reported in considerable detail on the process to revise the existing Pennsylvania Stormwater Manual (released in December 2006).  PA DEP formed a Revision Committee, including nine sub-groups which focus on different topics (e.g., stormwater standards, water quality, and so forth). As we understand it, these sub-groups are continuing to meet this Fall.

However, at the state level, we also understand that PA DEP - at least for the moment - is pulling back from this effort and re-considering its role in terms of this revision process, to some extent reflecting the severe cutback in budget funding that has just been enacted.  PA DEPs remarkable 27 percent budget cutback is requiring PADEP to re-evaluate its agency workload, including any projects such as Manual revision which are not absolutely essential.

Secondly, PA DEPs support for the Revision Committee also is being re-evaluated as the result of input the agency has received in recent weeks which questions the extent to which this revision process adequately represents a broader public participation effort with all stakeholder groups and perspectives.  Note that the existing Manual had been developed with a large representative Oversight Committee, which met frequently during Manual development to provide input into the process.  As we understand it, much of the discussion relates to whether sub-group revisions are simply technical updates - new information on BMP development, for example - and correction of Manual errors - versus changes to recommended stormwater standards (control guidelines) and management policies.  This line quickly blurs.  We’ll try to keep you informed as this effort progresses…

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