A consensus study committee will:
1) Review the data sources and methods used by a regionally diverse cross-section of state departments of transportation (state DOTs) to: a) estimate and monitor pollutants in stormwater runoff from highways and pedestrian facilities that are eligible for federal aid, and b) determine the sources and loads of the pollutants in the runoff and their contribution to receiving water waste load allocations established under the Clean Water Act;
2) Assess the methods and approaches used by state DOTs to select total maximum daily load compliance strategies within a watershed, including strategies that involve environmental restoration and pollution abatement and taking into account laws, regulations, and other factors that can affect these strategy choices; and,
3) Consider how the federal government, including the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), can assist in the communication and dissemination of best practices for highway stormwater management, as informed by the study committee’s review of state practices.
On the basis of its assessment, the committee may make recommendations to state DOTs, FHWA, USDOT, EPA, and Congress regarding methods and practices for devising, selecting, and carrying out highway stormwater management compliance strategies and on FHWA’s and USDOT’s roles in promoting best practices. As appropriate, the committee may make recommendations pertaining to relevant laws and regulations.