GEN JOSEPH WHEELER ARMY RESERVE CENTER/AL 042 Stormwater Outfall, Sheffield, Alabama

GEN JOSEPH WHEELER ARMY RESERVE CENTER/AL 042 is a stormwater outfall located at 4600 Hatch Blvd. in Sheffield, Colbert County, Alabama. As a stormwater outfall, it manages runoff from the military reserve center and adjacent areas, discharging into local waterways. The facility operates under the US EPA NPDES MS4 permit framework, which regulates stormwater discharges from municipal separate storm sewer systems. Stormwater outfalls like this one are critical for controlling the quality and quantity of runoff from urban and industrial areas. In Alabama, stormwater management is governed by the Clean Water Act and state regulations, with permits requiring best management practices to reduce pollutant loads. The facility's NAICS code 928110 indicates it is associated with national security and international affairs, reflecting its military context. The environmental significance of this outfall lies in its role in preventing flooding and reducing pollution in the Tennessee River watershed. Proper operation helps protect water quality in receiving streams, which is vital for local ecosystems and downstream communities. The facility's location in an urban area means it must manage runoff from impervious surfaces, a common challenge for stormwater systems.

The stormwater outfall discharges into the Tennessee River basin, a region with significant ecological importance. Urban runoff from Sheffield and the military reserve center can carry pollutants such as sediment, oil, and heavy metals. Effective stormwater management is essential to protect aquatic habitats and comply with Clean Water Act requirements for impaired water bodies in the area.