Maintenance of stormwater BMPs in four Maryland counties: A status report

ABSTRACT: This paper reports the findings of field inspections of more than 250 stormwater facilities in four counties in Maryland. The types of facilities inspected include detention basins, infiltration basins and trenches, dry wells, underground storage facilities, and vegetated swales. While most of the facilities are found to be functioning as designed, many needed maintenance. Inspectors believe that enforcement action is warranted at many sites. The condition of different types of facilities varies significantly. Several models are used to explain results. Overall, the investigations document the need for improved inspection and maintenance by stormwater management regulatory authorities.