What does NPDES stand for?

NPDES stands for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. This is a critical program under the Clean Water Act that regulates the discharge of pollutants into the waters of the United States. The NPDES permit program requires facilities and operators to obtain permission or a permit to discharge specific pollutants, thus ensuring compliance with environmental standards aimed at protecting water quality.

The correct reference to "pollutant discharge" in the name highlights the system's primary focus on managing and controlling the release of harmful substances into aquatic environments, which is essential for mitigating the impacts of pollution and sustaining healthy ecosystems. Understanding what NPDES stands for is key for anyone working in the field of erosion, sediment, and stormwater management, as it lays the groundwork for regulatory compliance and environmental protection efforts.