Graphic Packaging International, Inc. Stormwater Outfall, Fort Smith, Arkansas | Industrial Stormwater Management

Graphic Packaging International, Inc. manages a stormwater outfall located at 3220 Boone Street in Fort Smith, Arkansas, within Sebastian County. This outfall serves an industrial facility classified under NAICS 322212 (Paperboard Mills), handling stormwater runoff from the plant's premises. The facility is operational and falls under the regulatory oversight of the US Clean Water Act, specifically through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program, which governs stormwater discharges from industrial sites. As a stormwater outfall for a paperboard manufacturing facility, the system is designed to manage runoff from industrial surfaces, including processing areas, storage yards, and parking lots. The facility's stormwater management practices likely include best management practices (BMPs) such as sediment basins, oil-water separators, or filtration systems to control pollutants like suspended solids, oils, and heavy metals common in industrial runoff. The outfall discharges into local waterways, which may be subject to water quality standards under the Clean Water Act. The environmental significance of this outfall lies in its role in mitigating the impact of industrial stormwater on the Arkansas River watershed. Fort Smith's industrial base, including paperboard manufacturing, contributes to the local economy but also requires careful stormwater management to protect water quality. The facility's compliance with NPDES permit conditions is critical for minimizing pollution and supporting the ecological health of receiving waters.

The stormwater outfall at Graphic Packaging International, Inc. discharges into the Arkansas River watershed, which supports diverse aquatic life and is used for recreation and drinking water downstream. The facility's industrial catchment, typical of paperboard manufacturing, can contribute pollutants such as total suspended solids, nutrients, and metals if not properly managed. Regulatory oversight under the Clean Water Act and NPDES MS4 permits ensures that stormwater controls are in place to protect this waterbody from impairment.