Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Practice Test

What is one of the primary goals of stormwater management practices?

1. To completely eliminate runoff

2. To control and minimize the impact of stormwater runoff on the environment

3. To increase land development rates

4. To prioritize economic gain over environmental quality

The correct answer is: To control and minimize the impact of stormwater runoff on the environment

One of the primary goals of stormwater management practices is to control and minimize the impact of stormwater runoff on the environment. This focus is essential because stormwater runoff can carry pollutants such as sediment, nutrients, and chemicals from urban and agricultural surfaces into local waterways, which can harm aquatic ecosystems and water quality. By implementing effective stormwater management practices, such as green infrastructure, retention basins, and permeable pavements, communities can mitigate these impacts, improve water quality, and reduce flooding. The intent is not to eliminate runoff entirely, as some level of runoff is necessary for natural water cycles and drainage; rather, the emphasis is on managing it in a sustainable way that protects both human and environmental health.