Overview
The Huntsville and Madison County Railroad Authority operates a stormwater outfall in Huntsville, Alabama, managing runoff from railroad infrastructure under US EPA NPDES MS4 regulations.
The Huntsville and Madison County Railroad Authority operates a stormwater outfall located at 119 Woodson Street in Huntsville, Alabama. This facility manages stormwater runoff from railroad operations and infrastructure, serving the Huntsville metropolitan area. As a stormwater outfall, it is part of the broader municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) network regulated under the US Clean Water Act. The facility operates under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) MS4 permit framework, which requires stormwater management programs to reduce pollutant discharges. The outfall likely handles runoff from industrial and transportation-related activities typical of railroad yards, including potential contaminants such as heavy metals, oils, and sediments. Alabama's stormwater regulations align with EPA Phase II MS4 requirements for small municipalities and industrial facilities. This outfall plays a role in protecting local water quality in the Tennessee River basin, which receives stormwater discharges from Huntsville. Proper management of railroad stormwater runoff is critical to prevent pollution of receiving waters and maintain compliance with Clean Water Act standards. The facility contributes to the region's infrastructure resilience by controlling runoff volumes and pollutant loads.
Environmental context
The outfall discharges into the Tennessee River watershed, which supports diverse aquatic ecosystems and provides drinking water for downstream communities. Huntsville's urban and industrial development increases stormwater runoff volumes and pollutant loads, including sediment, heavy metals, and hydrocarbons from railroad operations. The facility must comply with Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements for impaired water bodies in the region, ensuring that discharges do not exceed water quality standards.
Frequently asked questions
The outfall is located at 119 Woodson Street in Huntsville, Madison County, Alabama, United States.
It manages stormwater runoff from railroad operations and infrastructure, discharging into the local MS4 system under NPDES permit requirements.
Common pollutants include sediments, heavy metals, oils, grease, and other contaminants from railroad equipment and maintenance activities.
It operates under the US Clean Water Act's NPDES MS4 permit program, which requires stormwater management plans, best management practices, and monitoring to reduce pollutant discharges.
Proper management reduces pollution in receiving waters like the Tennessee River, protects aquatic habitats, and helps maintain water quality for drinking and recreation.
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