Recommended Parameters to Report with BMP Monitoring Data

Abstract

This paper discusses the need for the reporting of a variety of physical, chemical, climatic, geological, biological, and meteorological parameters along with the data required by various investigators on the performance of structural stormwater best management practices (BMPs) used to enhance stormwater quality. A standard list of minimum parameters is suggested. Such a list is needed if we want to exchange and transfer data between various studies being conducted throughout the world, or even within the United States. Transferability of performance results and consistency, or lack of it, in the performance of various BMPs, has been an ongoing problem. A mutually agreed upon minimum list of reporting parameters that can be used to relate the performance to some, or all, BMPs could begin to address this problem. Over time such standardization will conserve the resources being expended, not only by individual BMP investigations, but also in the selection and appropriate design of various BMPs.