The U.S. EPA has published a rule specifying that stormwater runoff from logging roads does not require a discharge permit under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (“NPDES”) Program.  The rule specifies that logging roads on both public and private land should be managed under best management practices, which rules are often developed by states, rather than regulated under the Federal Clean Water Act.  The new rule specifies that runoff from logging roads is not a discharge “associated with industrial activity,” and therefore not regulated.

For more information, contact Phillip Hoover.