What is the role of a stormwater management plan?

A stormwater management plan plays a critical role in outlining the strategies and practices that will be employed to minimize erosion and sedimentation during construction activities. Construction sites are particularly vulnerable to soil disruption, which can lead to increased runoff and sediment transport into nearby water bodies. By implementing a comprehensive stormwater management plan, developers and contractors can establish best management practices (BMPs) designed to control water flow, stabilize soil, and protect water quality.

The plan typically includes detailing the methods for managing stormwater, like using silt fences, sediment basins, and other erosion control techniques that help keep sediment on-site and prevent it from entering waterways. This preemptive approach is vital for maintaining environmental integrity and complying with regulatory requirements regarding stormwater management.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary objective of a stormwater management plan. For instance, increasing water demand during droughts is counterproductive to the intent of managing water resources efficiently. Promoting urban development may be a secondary outcome but does not reflect the plan's focus on erosion and sediment control specifically. Lastly, while enforcing water quality monitoring is important, it is typically a component of a larger regulatory framework rather than the primary role of a stormwater management plan.