CIWQS - Storm Water User Group
March 6, 2008 Status Update
We have completed the beta testing phase of the new storm water registration and NOI application module. Thanks to those of you who tested the module and submitted comments to us.
At our last meeting, we indicated that we anticipated a public release date of the module by mid-January 2008. Unfortunately, a technical glitch has arose involving the possibility that the new module will introduce duplicate organization/party names into CIWQS core, thus delaying the release date. When this issue is resolved, we should have a better idea when the release will occur and we will keep you posted.
We welcome your questions and comments. Please contact Leo Cosentini at any time either by e-mail (lcosentini@waterboards.ca.gov) or by phone at 916-341-5524.
December 12, 2007 Meeting
On December 12, 2007 the Storm Water staff hosted a WebEx session to demonstrate SWPAP to a group of beta testers identified at the November 13, 2007 meeting. After the meeting information required to login and test SWPAP was emailed to the beta testers.
November 13, 2007 Meeting Summary
The Storm Water group was presented with updates to the SWARM module and a brief introduction to the SWPAP (Storm Water Public Access and Participation Project).
Firstly, Regional Water Board staff updated the Storm Water Annual Reports Module (SWARM) users on the few outstanding issues, with the majority of the time discussing the incomplete list of analytical methods. The users requested improved communication between the CIWQS Help Center and users and expressed the desire to track issues previously reported to the CIWQS Help Center. A detailed list of issues discussed can be provided upon request.
Secondly, State Water Board staff introduced the SWPAP to the group, briefly touching on the two court appeals regarding regulatory review and public access to permit compliance documents. The Office of Chief Council has recommended that the Water Boards improve, to the maximum extent possible, its current Notice of Intent (NOI) and Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) review process and public participation process for industrial and construction general permits. After evaluating the current general permit regulatory and public review process and information technology capabilities (CIWQS, SMARTS, SWARM), State Water Board management selected the alternative that could be developed within the current permitting timeframes and that would attain the goal of significantly addressing the Courts Of Appeals rulings in regards to public access to compliance documents. The implementation of the project requirements will significantly reduce future processing impacts, logistical and storage problems, and provide the public with immediate access to vital permitting information.
Individuals volunteered to participate in the steering committee and others volunteered to participate in the user group testing the SWPAP.