Public Works Storm and Surfacewater Utility initiated a program in 2008 that works with local businesses to reduce pollution.
Bellingham places a high value on protecting groundwater, stormwater and surface water, which ultimately flows into nearby streams, lakes, and Bellingham Bay. To help protect these resources, the city signed an agreement in 2008 with the State Department of Ecology to fund two Local Source Control Specialist staff positions in the Public Works Department. “Source Control” refers to controlling or intercepting pollution at its source, before it enters the environment.
Many routine business activities can pollute stormwater runoff or groundwater. Ecology’s goal, under their partnership with the city, is to provide technical assistance and education to help local small businesses prevent stormwater contaminants and hazardous waste from entering our waterways. During the first several months of this program, the Specialists completed more than 100 technical assistance visits to industry sectors such as automotive and boat repair, dry cleaners, dentists, veterinary clinics, painters, e-waste facilities, and photo processors.
The Local Source Control Program seeks cooperation by providing education and technical assistance, and is not a regulatory program. During a site visit, the Local Source Control Specialist checks on the following activities, and others, to make sure they are being carried out responsibly:
How does this program coordinate with other city programs? Activities implemented through this partnership with the Department of Ecology are supporting other city strategies and efforts to protect local water resources, improve management of solid and hazardous wastes, and protect public and environmental health. This program also helps meet many requirements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit that the city is obligated to implement.
Bri Silbaugh
Local Source Control Specialist
Storm and Surface Water Utility
City of Bellingham, Public Works
Office: (360)778-7961
pw@cob.org
Mindy Collins
Local Source Control Specialist
Storm and Surface Water Utility
City of Bellingham, Public Works
Office: (360)778-7962
pw@cob.org
Follow these Best Management Practices for pollution control of stormwater and the sanitary sewer:
Labeling Recommendations:
Disposal Options for Hazardous Waste:
The Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics
3505 Airport Drive, Bellingham (360)380-4640
Call ahead for authorization and prices
Call a local source control specialist for more disposal options:
(360)778-7961
