Chert Borrow Pit Stormwater Outfall, Florence, Alabama | US Stormwater Facility

Chert Borrow Pit is a stormwater outfall located in Florence, Lauderdale County, Alabama, United States. It manages stormwater runoff from the Central, Woodard, Orleans, and Weakley Streets area, contributing to local flood control and water quality management. As a stormwater outfall, it is part of the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) serving the Florence urban area. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Water Act, specifically the EPA's NPDES MS4 permit program. Phase II MS4 requirements apply to smaller municipalities like Florence, mandating stormwater management plans to reduce pollutant discharges. The outfall likely handles runoff from residential and commercial catchments, with typical stormwater infrastructure including conveyance pipes and outfall structures. Environmental significance includes preventing localized flooding and reducing sediment and pollutant loads to receiving waters. The outfall discharges into local water bodies, potentially affecting water quality in the Tennessee River basin. Proper operation supports community resilience and compliance with water quality standards.

The facility is located in the Tennessee River watershed, which supports diverse aquatic habitats and is used for recreation and water supply. Stormwater runoff from urban areas like Florence can carry pollutants such as sediment, nutrients, and heavy metals, impacting water quality. The outfall's discharge is regulated under the Clean Water Act to minimize these impacts, with MS4 permits requiring best management practices for erosion control and pollutant reduction.