Stormwater
City of Los Angeles TMDL and MS4 Regulatory Support
Since 2009, LWA has been a trusted partner for the City of Los Angeles’ Watershed Protection Division, helping to safeguard the city’s vast water resources and navigate increasingly complex environmental regulations.
What Sets Us Apart
- Tackling Complex Water Quality Challenges: We address issues in major water bodies like Santa Monica Bay, Ballona Creek, and Los Angeles area lakes. Our work covers a range of pollutants, from bacteria to toxic substances, ensuring a holistic approach to water quality.
- Navigating and Shaping Regulations: We guide the city through intricate environmental rules, including Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for various pollutants. Our team has been instrumental in negotiating with regulatory agencies to develop practical, science-based water quality standards.
- Developing Innovative Solutions: We create new approaches to meet water quality goals, such as alternative methods for assessing and reducing pollutant loads. Our strategies balance environmental protection with feasible implementation, considering the unique urban landscape of Los Angeles.
- Collaborative Stakeholder Engagement: We facilitate cooperation between city departments, regulatory agencies, and other dischargers to find mutually beneficial solutions. Our team has supported negotiations with the LA Regional Water Quality Control Board, US EPA, and various stakeholders.
- Supporting Informed Decision-Making: We conduct detailed technical analyses and monitoring programs to provide solid scientific backing for water management decisions. Our experts have provided crucial testimony in regulatory hearings, ensuring the city’s perspective is well-represented.
Key Services and Achievements
- Santa Monica Bay and Marina del Rey: We helped revise bacteria TMDLs, incorporating the latest scientific understanding to protect beach-goers while setting achievable goals.
- Ballona Creek: We developed strategies for addressing toxics, metals, and bacteria, proposing innovative compliance approaches and supporting deadline extensions where needed.
- Urban Runoff Studies: We conducted comprehensive monitoring in three watersheds to quantify bacteria loading from urban areas, informing targeted mitigation strategies.
- Lake Water Quality: We managed the development of implementation plans for Echo Park and Lincoln Park lakes, aligning local efforts with state-level approaches.
- Stormwater Management Revolution: We played a pivotal role in shaping Los Angeles County’s MS4 Permit, introducing watershed-based management concepts that allow for more flexible, effective water quality improvements.
We bring expertise, innovation, and a collaborative spirit to help you protect your water resources while building a more sustainable, livable city.