Research Needs in Urban Storm‐Water Pollution

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an analysis of research needs in urban storm‐water pollution control. This assessment of needs is based on evaluation of the state of the art in four areas: urban runoff characterization, water quality effects, control effectiveness, and decision‐making models. Over $100,000,000 has been invested by US EPA addressing this important question. The list of research needs is based on an extensive literature review of current research activities. Research needs related to characterizations include linking surface and subsurface phenomena, and automated monitoring systems. Research needs related to receiving water impacts stress the need for benefit‐risk assessments for improved water quality standards. Multi‐purpose wet and dry weather control units offer attractive possibilities as cost‐effective systems. Lastly, improved procedures for calibrating models and using simulation models in engineering design are among several possibilities for improved decision‐making.