Overview
Universal Heights Site is a stormwater outfall in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, serving an industrial catchment. It operates under US EPA NPDES MS4 permit regulations.
Universal Heights Site is a stormwater outfall located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States. The facility manages stormwater runoff from an industrial catchment area, with NAICS codes indicating activities in construction sand and gravel mining, and other nonmetallic mineral mining. As a stormwater outfall, it discharges collected runoff into local waterways, playing a key role in managing urban and industrial stormwater. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Clean Water Act, specifically the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits. As a Phase II small MS4, it is subject to requirements for stormwater management plans, best management practices, and monitoring to reduce pollutant discharges. The industrial catchment likely necessitates additional industrial stormwater permitting under EPA's Multi-Sector General Permit. Environmental significance includes potential impacts on receiving water bodies in the Tuscaloosa area, such as the Black Warrior River. The facility's discharge may affect local water quality, particularly if the receiving water is impaired. Proper stormwater management helps mitigate flooding, erosion, and pollution from urban and industrial runoff, supporting community and ecological health.
Environmental context
The facility is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, within the Black Warrior River watershed. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with frequent rainfall, making stormwater management critical for flood control and water quality. Industrial catchments like this one can introduce pollutants such as sediment, heavy metals, and hydrocarbons into waterways. The Black Warrior River is a vital resource for drinking water, recreation, and aquatic habitat, and its water quality is subject to state and federal regulations. Effective stormwater treatment at this outfall helps reduce the risk of impairing this important waterbody.
Frequently asked questions
Universal Heights Site is located at 200 yards east of Universal Heights Road and 36th Avenue North in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States.
Universal Heights Site is a stormwater outfall that discharges runoff from an industrial catchment area, including activities like construction sand and gravel mining.
The facility operates under the US Clean Water Act, specifically the NPDES MS4 permit program for small municipalities, and may also be subject to industrial stormwater permitting.
Stormwater outfalls like Universal Heights Site manage runoff to reduce flooding and pollution. They are part of a stormwater management system that includes best management practices to filter pollutants before discharge.
The facility discharges into the Black Warrior River watershed, which supports drinking water, recreation, and aquatic life. Proper management helps prevent impairment from industrial pollutants.
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