Oakworth Yard Stormwater Outfall, Decatur, Alabama | United States

Oakworth Yard is a stormwater outfall located at 201 6th Street SE in Decatur, Morgan County, Alabama, United States. This facility is part of the stormwater management infrastructure serving the Decatur area, handling runoff from urban and industrial catchments. As a stormwater outfall, it discharges collected stormwater into local waterways, playing a key role in flood control and water quality management. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Water Act, specifically through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits. Decatur, as a Phase II small MS4 community, is required to implement stormwater management programs to reduce pollutant discharges to the maximum extent practicable. The outfall likely serves an industrial area given its location near rail lines (NAICS 482111). Stormwater outfalls like Oakworth Yard are critical for managing runoff from impervious surfaces, reducing flooding risks, and protecting downstream water bodies from pollution. The facility's discharge may affect local streams and the Tennessee River watershed. Effective operation helps meet water quality standards and supports community resilience against storm events.

The Oakworth Yard outfall discharges stormwater into the Tennessee River watershed, which supports diverse aquatic ecosystems and provides drinking water for downstream communities. Urban and industrial runoff in Decatur can carry pollutants such as sediment, heavy metals, and hydrocarbons. The facility's location in an industrial area increases the potential for pollutant loading, making stormwater treatment and best management practices essential for protecting water quality.