ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. – Here at Team Robins, environmental stewardship is not just a regulatory obligation, it is a mission-critical responsibility. Environmental non-compliance can lead to large financial penalties for the base, which could allocate funds away from the mission.
One of the most straightforward and impactful practices in stormwater pollution prevention is minimizing exposure or reducing the ability for pollutants to come into contact with stormwater. This practice is emphasized in both the 2022 Georgia Environmental Protection Division Industrial General Permit and the associated permit required by Robins AFB, the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan.
One common source of potential pollutants is waste. Dumpsters, roll-offs and hoppers often contain materials like municipal waste, scrap metals, or construction debris, such as paint, mortar mix, insulation and caulk. When left uncovered, materials that are not intended for outdoor use are vulnerable to rainfall, which can leach contaminants, such as total suspended solids, oils and metals, into the stormwater system.
At Robins AFB, such runoff could discharge into sensitive ecosystems, including the Ocmulgee River and adjacent wetlands. According to the 2022 GA EPD IGP, facilities must “keep all dumpster lids closed when not in use. For dumpsters and roll-off boxes that do not have lids and could contaminate stormwater, ensure that discharges have a control (e.g., secondary containment, treatment).” In addition, covers can prevent trash from being windblown onto the ground or directly into the drainage system.
Uncovered or poorly covered roll-offs and dumpsters are the most observed violation at Robins AFB during routine SWPPP inspections. It is critical to work together to achieve compliance. If you come across uncovered or poorly covered roll-offs that need attention, please reach out to Base Environmental. For more information, call 478-222-2526.
Stormwater Straight Talk is a quarterly column intended to educate and inform base personnel and families about stormwater management.