RI DEM/Office of Water Resources - RIPDES Storm Water Program FAQ Page

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I obtain information on training opportunities?

Training:

AMERICAN OCEANS CAMPAIGN in cooperation with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, produced a public service video in 4:00, 2:30, :60 and :30 minute versions to educate the public about easy steps they can take to reduce pollution, and the need for their support of municipal activities to reduce storm water pollution. The RIDEM has a copy of the public service video and is available for loan. Please contact Greg Goblick (ggoblick@dem.state.ri.us) if you are interested, or visit the AMERICAN OCEANS CAMPAIGN website at www.americanoceans.org/.

Planet CPR, a nonprofit organization helping people conserve, protect and restore the environment, has established a "Grate Mate" program utilizing volunteer groups to install catch basin inserts of the type often used for sediment control on construction sites, in existing parking lot storm drains. To date, more than 1,500 filters have been installed in the Puget Sound area through this program. To learn more about this program RIDEM has a copy of the Grate Mate Project video available for loan. Please contact Greg Goblick (ggoblick@dem.state.ri.us) if you are interested, or visit the Planet CPR website at www.PlantCPR.org .

State of Colorado The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has produced a 13 minute training video and guidebook on vehicle and equipment washout at construction sites. The video focuses on mixer and concrete pump trucks. Concrete washout wastes pose a serious threat to receiving water quality as well as aquatic habitats. Concrete washout wastes are caustic and can change the pH of the water altering the habitat. In addition, washout wastes contain fine particles of sand and cement which can interfere with the ability of fish to breath. RIDEM has a copy of the video available for loan. Please contact Greg Goblick (ggoblick@dem.state.ri.us) if you are interested.