SILVER SPRING, MD — The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association has promoted pervious concrete to federal officials in a series of nationwide public hearings aimed at reducing stormwater discharges from new developments. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently held the meetings in Chicago, Denver, Dallas and Washington, each aimed at soliciting input as part of the EPA’s goal of establishing a comprehensive program to reduce stormwater discharges from new development and re-developments and to make other regulatory improvements to strengthen its stormwater program. The stormwater discharges of separate municipal storm sewer systems (MS4s) were also discussed along with general comments about the stormwater program.

  “Pervious concrete www.perviouspavement.org is the perfect solution to help minimize the amount of stormwater runoff from developed areas,” said NRMCA president Robert Garbini. “NRMCA is asking the EPA to assist industries with compliance assistance and equitable enforcement. Companies want to comply but the regulations are very confusing and some contradict each other.”

Garbini informed EPA officials that NRMCA’s Green Star Program www.nrmca.org/operations/ENVIRONMENT/certifications_greenstar.htm is a “perfect example” of how NRMCA and EPA officials can work on collaborative efforts to help make the environment a better place.

  “Pervious concrete is a great solution to minimizing the pollutants that enter our nation’s waterways because it allows stormwater to percolate directly through the pavement and into the soil beneath to recharge groundwater and aquifers,” added David Ayers, NRMCA, managing director of compliance.

  The six members of the EPA staff were very interested in obtaining additional data on pervious concrete. NRMCA is submitting extensive comments in response to these listening sessions.

  NRMCA, based in Silver Spring, MD, represents the producers of ready mixed concrete and the companies that provide materials, equipment and support to the industry. It conducts education, training, promotion, research, engineering, safety, environmental, technological, lobbying and regulatory programs.