AQUALIS Stormwater Management stands as a premier provider of stormwater and lift station management services across the United States. Catering to a diverse clientele that includes retail, commercial, industrial, municipal, and governmental sectors, AQUALIS offers a wide array of services. These encompass stormwater consulting, inspection, maintenance, vactor and jetting services, and repair operations. The company’s core mission is to inspire change by safeguarding our most vital natural resource: water.

Stormwater Management

– What is Stormwater Management?

Stormwater management is crucial for controlling the flow of rainwater and snowmelt. During rainfall and snowmelt events, water naturally flows onto vegetation and permeable ground, where it can be absorbed. However, in urbanized areas, stormwater often falls on impervious surfaces, such as roads and buildings, which inhibit natural absorption. This leads to increased stormwater runoff, necessitating the implementation of stormwater systems to mitigate flooding and protect freshwater ecosystems.

– How is Stormwater Managed?

Stormwater is managed using devices known as Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs), sometimes referred to as Best Management Practices (BMPs). These systems are designed to collect, store, and treat stormwater effectively. Regular maintenance and occasional repairs of these stormwater assets are essential to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain their functionality.

AQUALIS: Expertise and Services

– Comprehensive Solutions for Stormwater Management

At AQUALIS, a multidisciplinary team of experts in engineering, biology, environmental science, and construction management collaborates to provide tailored solutions for post-construction stormwater needs. Our comprehensive services include:

– Preventative Maintenance: Regular assessments and upkeep of stormwater assets.

– Industrial Vacuuming: Efficient removal of debris and pollutants.

– Corrective Maintenance and Repairs: Addressing issues promptly to maintain system integrity.

– Retrofit and Redesign: Updating existing systems to enhance performance.

– Emergency Response: Rapid action to mitigate stormwater related emergencies.

With over 20 years of experience, AQUALIS has established strong relationships with stormwater regulators nationwide. This network facilitates efficient communication, minimizes Notices of Violations (NOVs), and promotes environmental stewardship and awareness of stormwater regulations. regional professionals serve as liaisons between clients and regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

– Localized Solutions for Nationwide Impact

AQUALIS prides itself on delivering localized stormwater management solutions tailored to the unique hydrology, climate, and regulatory frameworks of each site. With geographically-based crews, stormwater specialists develop optimal strategies for both aboveground and underground SCMs.

– The Importance of Preventative Maintenance

Whether managing a single property or multiple locations across the country, AQUALIS offers robust preventative maintenance programs. These programs evaluate local regulatory standards, operational agreements, and original engineering site plans to create a comprehensive plan that extends the lifespan of your investments, mitigates flooding risks, and enhances property safety.

– Innovative Approaches to Stormwater Management

Innovation is at the heart of AQUALIS’s operations. Engineering team continuously explores new technologies to develop effective and cost-efficient solutions for stormwater and wastewater management. By integrating emerging technologies, clients with confidence and security in their water resource management needs.

Expanding Reach: The Innovac Acquisition

AQUALIS recently strengthened its service offerings through the acquisition of Innovative Vacuum Services (Innovac), a well-established organization specializing in stormwater and emergency response services. This strategic move enhances AQUALIS’s capabilities in vactor and jetting services, CCTV inspections, and commercial HVAC air duct cleaning.

Richard Matero, CEO of AQUALIS, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Innovac is a steadfast and innovative organization providing focused services in the stormwater and construction industries. This acquisition allows to expand services and capabilities in the market.” Larry Prein, president of Innovac, emphasized the potential for growth and customer satisfaction that this partnership brings.

The Necessity of Effective Stormwater Management

– Why is Stormwater Management Essential?

Land development inevitably disrupts natural ecosystems, altering stormwater flow and the ground’s ability to absorb water. This disruption can lead to significant environmental issues, including:

– Pollution: Stormwater runoff often carries harmful chemicals from impervious surfaces, contaminating local water bodies and threatening aquatic life and drinking water sources.

– Erosion: Altered water flow can lead to erosion, damaging ecosystems and infrastructure.

– Flooding: Inadequate stormwater management can result in overflow from drainage systems, leading to flooding.

– Flooding: Excess stormwater can cause muddiness in water bodies, affecting sunlight penetration and harming aquatic ecosystems.

– Infrastructure Damage: The cumulative effects of pollution, erosion, flooding, and turbidity can severely impact local infrastructure.

– Developing a Stormwater Management Plan

A Stormwater Management Plan (SWPPP) is a formal document often required by the EPA or local authorities to obtain permits for discharging stormwater runoff from construction sites. It outlines every aspect of a project, including pollutant sources and active controls or BMPs to manage stormwater and reduce erosion.

– Distinguishing Between SWPPP and SWMP

The primary distinction between a SWPPP and a Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP) lies in their duration and purpose. A SWPPP is temporary, addressing stormwater flow and quality during construction, while an SWMP provides a permanent solution for ongoing management after project completion. Both plans require detailed information about the site, including nearby water bodies and pollutant management strategies.

Benefits of a Stormwater Management Plan

While developing a stormwater management plan involves regulatory complexities, it offers significant benefits for site operators and surrounding communities:

1. Water Quality Protection

Effective stormwater management is vital for maintaining water quality. Systems must filter pollutants to prevent contamination of drinking water sources and local ecosystems. Techniques like biofiltration swales utilize natural processes to achieve this goal.

2. Reduced Flooding Risk

A well-structured stormwater management plan minimizes flooding risks by directing rainwater away from vulnerable areas. This proactive approach also reduces erosion, further protecting the environment.

3. Regulatory Compliance

Implementing a robust stormwater management plan ensures compliance with federal and local regulations, helping site managers avoid fines and project delays.

Case Study: Green Stormwater Infrastructure Plan for the City of Green Bay

– Overview

AQUALIS developed a comprehensive Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Plan for the City of Green Bay, addressing urban flooding and water quality challenges. The plan identified and prioritized 50 strategic public and private sites for GSI implementation.

– Problem Identification

Green Bay, like many urban areas, faces significant challenges due to dense development and extensive impervious surfaces. This leads to flood-prone areas and water quality issues. GSI aims to mimic natural processes by capturing, storing, treating, and slowly releasing stormwater runoff, thereby improving water quality and reducing peak loads on drainage systems.

– Solution Development

The City-Wide GSI Plan outlines priority areas for GSI strategies, evaluating their cost-effectiveness. It provides a clear guide for decision-makers to achieve reduced flood risk and healthier water bodies while enhancing the quality of life for residents. The plan recommends 50 locations for GSI implementation, supported by preliminary engineering estimates for pollutant removal and runoff capture.

Conclusion

AQUALIS Stormwater Management is committed to leading the way in effective stormwater solutions. Through innovative practices, strategic partnerships, and a focus on sustainability, we strive to protect our water resources and enhance the resilience of communities. As continue to expand services nationwide, AQUALIS remains dedicated to inspiring change and fostering a healthier environment for future generations.

To explore the latest innovations in water and energy technologies, and discover a wide range of products and solutions from around the world, you can visit the virtual exhibition AQUA ENERGY EXPO which featuring leading companies in water treatment, desalination, and sustainable energy through the following link: https://aquaenergyexpo.com/