It looks like we’re on our way to funding the second phase of the OGD mapping tool! We wrote about the first phase nearly a year ago – you can revisit that here.

The first phase of the tool development created a proof of concept that pulled in existing data layers and allow users an added level of analysis which would inform the development of Stormwater Management Action Plans (SMAPs) – as required by Municipal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

The second phase will be focused on improving the user experience. For instance, we have heard how important it will be to allow for uploading data layers, saving progress, and comparing priorities across the entire watershed. This tool will be critical to understanding the priority investments in the watershed. We will likely be reigniting the OGD mapping tool subgroup in July to help inform the advancement of the tool. Please reach out if you’re interested in learning more.    

Several NPDES Permittees used the mapping tool to inform the development of their SMAPs. For example, the City of Renton is developing a stormwater management action plan that guides stormwater management policies and actions to protect water from pollution and improve water quality in a selected high-priority basin of Renton’s watersheds.

The community is invited to help us select the basin in which to implement the stormwater management action plan. Learn more about Renton’s stormwater management action planning process and share your ideas here.

Take care,
Todd