Who qualifies as a Qualified Inspector in stormwater management?

A Qualified Inspector in stormwater management is someone who possesses a certain level of training and expertise, particularly in relation to erosion and sediment control practices. This entails not just a basic understanding, but an ability to apply knowledge effectively in real-world scenarios.

The significance of taking a stormwater class or obtaining higher training in erosion and sediment control lies in the specialized skills and knowledge that these courses provide. Such training equips individuals with an understanding of regulatory requirements, best management practices, and the principles of hydrology and soil science, which are crucial for managing stormwater effectively and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

In contrast, merely reading the Construction General Permit (CGP) does not confer the necessary practical skills or nuanced understanding that comes from formal training. While writing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) involves knowledge, it does not inherently qualify someone as an inspector. Additionally, simply paying the fee for a permit does not guarantee that an individual has the requisite knowledge or skills to inspect stormwater management practices properly. These elements underscore the importance of actual training and certification in this field for those who have responsibility for inspection activities.