North County Transit District Storm Water Management Plan July 2019

North County Transit District

Storm Water Management Plan

July 2019

Prepared For:

810 Mission Avenue

Oceanside, CA 92054

Contents

1.0 Introduction ...... 8 1.1 NCTD Overview ...... 8 1.2 Program Management ...... 10 1.2.1 Program Management Element ...... 10 1.3 Regulatory Background ...... 11 1.4 NPDES Permit Program ...... 11 1.4.1 MS4 Permit Phase I Program ...... 11 1.4.2 MS4 Permit Phase II Program ...... 12 1.4.3 Industrial General Permit ...... 12 1.4.4 Construction General Permit ...... 13 1.5 Non-NPDES Permits ...... 13 1.5.1 Erosion and Sediment Control Plan ...... 13 1.6 NCTD Pollutants of Concern ...... 13 1.6.1 Storm Water Runoff ...... 13 2.0 Education and Outreach ...... 19 2.1 Phase II MS4 General Permit Requirements ...... 19 2.2 Pollution Prevention Compliance Activities ...... 19 2.2.1 Public Education and Outreach ...... 19 2.2.2 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Training ...... 20 2.2.3 Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping Training ...... 20 2.3 Public Involvement and Participation ...... 20 3.0 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination ...... 23 3.1 Phase II MS4 General Permit Requirements ...... 23 3.2 Illicit Discharge and Elimination Compliance Activities ...... 23 3.2.1 Outfall Mapping ...... 25 3.2.2 FRA and CPUC Inspections ...... 25 3.2.3 IDDE Field Investigation and Sampling Program ...... 25 4.0 Construction Site Storm Water Runoff Control ...... 26 4.1 Construction General Permit ...... 26 4.2.2 Requirements for Construction Projects Not Covered by the Construction General Permit . 27 4.3 Construction Site Inventory ...... 29 4.4 Construction Plan Review and Approval Procedures ...... 30 4.5 Construction Site Inspection and Enforcement ...... 31

4.5.1 Inspection Responsibilities ...... 31 4.5.2 Phase II MS4 Permit Inspection Frequencies ...... 31 4.5.3 SWPPP Inspection Documentation Procedures ...... 31 4.5.4 CGP and ESCP Enforcement Actions ...... 31 4.5.5 Non-Compliance Reporting ...... 32 4.6 Program Effectiveness Assessment ...... 32 5.0 Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping ...... 34 5.1 Phase II MS4 Permit Requirements ...... 34 5.2 Inventory of Owned and Operated Facilities ...... 34 5.3 Facility Assessment ...... 34 5.4 Facility-Specific Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans ...... 35 5.5 Inspections, Visual Monitoring, and Remedial Action ...... 35 5.6 Storm Drain System Assessment and Prioritization...... 36 5.7 Storm Drain Maintenance Program ...... 36 5.8 Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Activities ...... 37 5.9 Landscape Design and Maintenance ...... 37 6.0 Post-Construction Storm Water Management Program ...... 41 6.1 Phase II MS4 General Permit Requirements ...... 41 6.2 Site Design Measures ...... 41 6.3 Low Impact Development Standards ...... 41 6.4 Operation and Maintenance Verification Program ...... 42 7.0 Program Effectiveness Assessment and Improvement Plan (PEAIP) ...... 45 8.0 Total Maximum Daily Loads Compliance Requirements ...... 47 9.0 Trash Provisions ...... 49 10.0 References ...... 50

Appendices Appendix A: SWPPP Templates Appendix B: Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Template

iii

Figures Figure 1: NCTD Facilities...... 18 Figure 2: Storm Drain and Poster Art ...... 21 Figure 3: Indicator Parameters ...... 24 Figure 4: Action Level Concentrations for Indicator Parameters...... 24 Figure 5: Vehicle Washing Station ...... 34 Figure 6: Visual Inspection of the Sprinter Right-of-Way ...... 35 Figure 7: Typical Maintenance Activity ...... 37 Figure 8: Post-Construction Swale BMP Culvert on NCTD Right-of-Way...... 41 Figure 9: San Diego Region Watersheds ...... 47

Tables Table 1: NCTD Activities and Expected Pollutants of Concern (POCs) ...... 15 Table 2: Minimum ESCP Requirements ...... 28 Table 3: Summary of Water Bodies with TMDLs near NCTD's ROW and/or Facilities ...... 48

Acronyms

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act

AS Approved Signatory

BMP Best Management Practice

CASQA California Storm water Quality Association

CGP Construction General Permit

CNG Compressed Natural Gas

CSMP Construction Site Monitoring Program

County San Diego County

CWA Federal Clean Water Act

DAR Duly Authorized Representative

DPR Department of Pesticide Regulation

EA Effectiveness Assessment

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

ERS Education Residential Sources

ESA Environmental Sensitive Area

ESCP Erosion Sediment Control Plan

GIS Geographical Information System

IGP Industrial General Permit

IDDE Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination

IPM Integrated Pest Management

LDM Landscape Design and Maintenance Management Plan

LID Low Impact Development

LRP Legally Responsible Person

LUP Linear Underground/Overhead Project

MEP Maximum Extent Practicable

MP Mile Post

MS4 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NCTD North County Transit District

NOI Notice of Intent

NOT Notice of Termination

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

NURP Nationwide Urban Runoff Program

O&M Operation and Maintenance

PRD Permit Registration Document

PCW Project Clean Water

POC Pollutant of Concern

POTW Publicly Owned Treatment Works

PEAIP Program Effectiveness Assessment and Improvement Plan

QSD Qualified SWPPP Developer

QSP Qualified SWPPP Practitioner

RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board

SANDAG San Diego Association of Governments

SDRWQCB San Diego Regional Water Quality Board

SIC Standard Industrial Classification

SMARTS Storm Water Multiple Application and Report Tracking System

SOP Standard Operating Procedure

SWMP Storm Water Management Plan

SWPPP Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan

SWRCB State Water Resources Control Board

TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load

WLA Waste Load Allocation

WDID Waste Discharge Identification

WDR Waste Discharge Requirements

WEF Water Environment Federation

vii

1.0 Introduction

This Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) was prepared to comply with federal, state, and local storm water regulations, including the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program . It is intended to be used for compliance with the “Phase II” NPDES Storm Water Permit known as the “Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit”. Since July 1, 2013, North County Transit District (NCTD) has been regulated under Water Quality Order No. 2013-0001-DWQ NPDES Permit No. CAS000004. The jurisdiction boundary of this permit extends from the southern Orange County border on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton [Mile Post (MP) 207.4] to south Del Mar (MP 245.7). Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) owns the City of San Diego portion of the rail corridor in San Diego County from (MP 245.7 to MP 267.5), including the San Diego trolley light rail and bus system. MTS has their own separate MS4 Phase II Permit and is responsible for the storm water discharges from their right-of-way (ROW).

This SWMP is intended to serve as the storm water compliance document for all maintenance activities that occur at NCTD facilities and within the railroad ROW. It is a living document that is intended to be updated as new program elements are being developed and implemented, as required by the conditions set forth, specifically in Section F – Non-Traditional Small MS4 Permittee Provisions of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. The SWMP identifies requirements from Section F of the Phase II MS4 General Permit that have been implemented by NCTD or planned to be implemented.

1.1 NCTD Overview

NCTD provides approximately 10.5 million passenger trips per year primarily in North San Diego County by commuter rail and bus services. It was established in 1975 by California Senate Bill No. 802 to plan, construct, and operate public transit in Northern San Diego County, within a geographic area of approximately 1,020 square miles (see map on reverse) with approximate population of 849,000 people. The NCTD Board of Directors is made up of one representative from each incorporated city (Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, Escondido, Oceanside, San Marcos, Solana Beach, and Vista) in the District, the Fifth District County Supervisor, NCTD Executive Director, and NCTD General Counsel.

NCTD’s geographical service area encompasses 1,020 square miles of northern San Diego County extending from Del Mar in the south, northeasterly to Escondido, north to the Riverside County line and Northwest to the Orange County Line (Figure 1). NCTD transit service is divided into the following 4 main categories:

• COASTER Commuter Rail Service – The COASTER train carries passengers on a 41-mile route between Oceanside Transit Center and Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego with 6 intermediate stops at the Carlsbad Village, Poinsettia, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Sorrento Valley, and Old Town stations. There are 7 locomotives and 28 Bi-Level coaches that serve an average weekday ridership of 4,915 passengers a day at 8 stations.

8 • SPRINTER Commuter Rail Service – The Sprinter serves 15 stations along 22-miles of commuter rail service between Oceanside Transit Center and Escondido Transit Center with intermediate stops at Nordahl Road Station, California State San Marcos Station, San Marcos Civic Center Station, Palomar College Station, Buena Creek Station, Civic Center Vista Station, Vista Transit Station, Melrose Station, College Boulevard Station, Rancho Del Oro Station, El Camino Real Station, Crouch Station, Coast Highway Station, and Oceanside Transit Center.

• Breeze and Flex Bus Service – NCTD’s Breeze bus fleet consists of 163 buses; 80-percent of the fleet are compressed natural gas (CNG) buses. By FY2021, NCTD will add up to 6 electric buses to the fleet to service 30 BREEZE routes and 4 FLEX routes within a 1,020 square mile radius. NCTD FLEX has 3 different service models; on demand, deviated fixed route, and point deviated fixed route. The deviated fixed route has a set schedule and route but can deviate from the route up to a certain distance to pick up or drop off customers. The FLEX point deviated fixed-route is between Escondido and Ramona and will deviate to designated areas along the route. There is a total of 171 vehicles in the BREEZE and FLEX fleet that serve an average 21,164 weekday riders.

• LIFT ADA Paratransit Service – The LIFT serves anybody certified eligible by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations, plus personal care attendants, if applicable. The LIFT services any location in NCTD’s service area that is ¾ mile from fixed bus route or Sprinter Station. NCTD has 62 Vans and Minivans that serve over 185,000 passengers each year.

In 2000, the NCTD Board of Directors adopted a policy guideline under the California Air Resource Board (CARB) “Urban Fleet Rule” that 85% of all new purchases of heavy-duty transit vehicles in its fleet would operate on alternative fuels. The fixed route fleet is apportioned between two maintenance and storage facilities: 101 buses are assigned to the West Division in Oceanside, and the remaining 63 buses are assigned to the East Division in Escondido. The demand response vehicles are also housed at both divisions with 53 located in the West Division and 8 located at East Division.

NCTD provides transit stations, operation and maintenance facilities, and administrative office buildings for its staff members and customers. There are 23 total rail transit centers and stations and four (4) operation and maintenance facilities for rail and bus maintenance activities. For rail operation and maintenance, NCTD has the Coaster Operations Facility on Camp Pendleton (Stuart Mesa Facility) and the Sprinter Operations Facility in Escondido. For Breeze, Flex and Lift operation and maintenance, NCTD has the West Division Bus Maintenance Facility in Oceanside and the Breeze Maintenance Operations in Escondido. Each of the four operation and maintenance facilities is covered under the Industrial General Permit (IGP). The NCTD administrative offices are located at 810 Mission Avenue and Tremont Street in Oceanside, California.

9 Operation and maintenance facilities operate to provide a multi-operational service to the rail and bus vehicles. The light rail service provides the Sprinter rail, in which it travels from Oceanside to Escondido. During the 22 miles of service, the light rail stops at 15 stations. The commuter rail service provides the Coaster vehicle with 41 miles of service designated to over eight stations ranging from Oceanside to downtown San Diego. Other commuter rail services include Metrolink and Amtrak, which have a shared use agreement with NCTD to operate commerce and commuter rail services on the railroad.

1.2 Program Management The NCTD Phase II Non-Traditional MS4 General Permit (Order No. 2013-0001-DWQ), Construction General Permit (2010-0014-DWQ), and Industrial General Permit (2014-0057-DWQ) are managed by the NCTD General Counsel Department. The Legally Responsible Person (LRP) for the program is Jacob Gould, Senior General Counsel and Nedina Facchini is the Authorized Signatory (AS). The LRP is responsible for certifying all Permit Registration Documents (PRDs) and other documents submitted into the Storm Water Multiple Application and Report Tracking System (SMARTS) website. The LRP may assign rights to submit and certify the Annual Report and any other pertinent reports to the AS. Nedina Facchini is the AS and Project Manager responsible for the Phase II Non-Traditional MS4 General Permit, as assigned by the LRP.

1.2.1 Program Management Element

NCTD adopted policies, contracts, and agreements to obtain legal authority to the extent allowable under state and local law to control storm water pollution into and from its MS4 system. This includes the following storm water management elements: • Effectively prohibit non-storm water discharges through the MS4, except non-storm water discharges that are not prohibited by the Phase II MS4 Permit and are considered non-significant contributors of pollutants. • Detect and eliminate illicit discharges and illegal connections to the MS4. Illicit connections include pipes, drains, open channels, or other conveyances that have the potential to allow an illicit discharge to enter the MS4. • Respond to spills and prohibit dumping or disposal of materials other than storm water into the MS4. • Require vendors, contractors and operators of commercial facilities to minimize the discharge of pollutants to the MS4 through the installation, implementation, and maintenance of Best Management Practices (BMPs) consistent with the California Storm Water Quality Association (CASQA) Best Management Practice Handbooks or this Storm Water Management Plan. • Ensure construction site or industrial facility operators provide a Waste Discharge Identification Number for coverage under the CGP and IGP and comply with the appropriate permit. • Review designs and proposals for new development and redevelopment to determine whether adequate BMPs will be installed, implemented, and maintained during construction and after final stabilization (post-construction).

10 • Review designs and proposals for new development and redevelopment to determine whether adequate Site Design Measures or Low Impact Development (LID) have been incorporated into the design to ensure no increase in the natural flow of storm water onto NCTD property. • Promptly stop all illicit discharges and/or cleanup and abate an illicit discharge, including the ability to: o Effectively require the discharger to abate and clean up their discharge, spill, or pollutant release within 72 hours of notification; o Require abatement, within 30 days of notification, for uncontrolled sources of pollutants that could pose an environmental threat; o Perform the cleanup and abatement work and bill the responsible party, if necessary; o Provide the option to order the cessation of activities until such problems are adequately addressed if a situation persists where pollutant-causing sources or activities are not abated; o Require a new timeframe and notify the appropriate Regional Water Board when all parties agree that clean-up activities cannot be completed within the original timeframe and notify the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board in writing within five business days of the determination that the timeframe requires revision.

1.3 Regulatory Background The Federal Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 402 prohibits the discharge of pollutants into waters of the United States (US) from any point source without an NPDES permit. The NPDES program initially focused on point source discharges of municipal and industrial wastewater. However, in 1983, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported in a summary of the Nationwide Urban Runoff Program (NURP) that urban storm water was one of the primary causes of water quality impairment across the nation. Since then, the U.S. EPA has used the authorities of the CWA to adopt urban runoff and storm water regulations and developed a two phased NPDES permit program for urban runoff; Phase I and Phase II NPDES Permits.

1.4 NPDES Permit Program 1.4.1 MS4 Permit Phase I Program In November 1990, under Phase I of the urban runoff management strategy, the U.S. EPA published NPDES permit application requirements for municipal, industrial, and construction storm water discharges. The application requirements for municipalities were directed at those that owned and operated separate storm drain systems serving populations of 100,000 or more, or those that contributed significant amounts of pollutants to waters of the United States. Such entities must obtain coverage under municipal sto rm water NPDES permits and develop and implement an urban runoff management program. The municipal urban runoff management program was required to address activities to reduce pollutants in urban runoff and storm water discharges that were contributing a substantial pollutant load to their systems. The U.S. EPA established narrative effluent limits for urban runoff, including the requirement to implement appropriate BMPs. Phase I regulations were also directed at certain facilities that discharge storm wate r associated with industrial activity, and construction activities that disturbed five or more acres. Although the municipal component of the Phase I program does not apply to NCTD, the industrial and construction

11 components are applicable to facilities and activities under NCTD control that meet the permitting requirements.

1.4.2 MS4 Permit Phase II Program In 2013, NCTD was designated a Phase II, Non-Traditional MS4 Permit by the State Water Resources Control Board. The Phase II Final Rule applies to operators of regulated small MS4s, which are designated based on the criteria discussed below.

• A small MS4 is any MS4 that is not already covered by the Phase 1 storm water program. Small MS4s include federally owned systems, such as military bases. • A small MS4 is generally designated in areas with less than 100,000 in population. • Only a select sub-set of small MS4s, referred to as regulated small MS4s, is covered by the Phase II Final Rule, either through automatic nationwide designation or designation on a case-by-case basis by the NPDES permitting authority.

As in Phase I, the Phase II Program requires the development and implementation of a SWMP to reduce pollutant discharges. As a public agency that owns and maintains infrastructure systems that convey urban drainage and storm water, NCTD is considered a Non-Traditional Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4), as identified on page 76 of the Fact Sheets for the Phase II MS4 General Permit.

1.4.3 Industrial General Permit Each of NCTD’s four (4) maintenance facilities are covered under Water Quality Order 2014-0057-DWQ/ NPDES Permit No. CAS000001 for storm water runoff associated with industrial facilities. The implementation date of this new permit started on July 1, 2015. These regulations prohibit discharges of polluted storm water unless the discharge meets the general NPDES permit requirements. The San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board (SDRWQCB) administers and enforces the IGP.

To receive coverage under the IGP, the owner or operator of an industrial facility must submit to the SWRCB a Notice of Intent (NOI) to comply with the permit, prepare a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and conduct monitoring and reporting. An industrial facility has the option to request an individual, site-specific NPDES permit instead of the general permit. RWQCBs, however, typically only adopt individual permits when the facility has exceptional characteristics or poses a considerable threat to storm water.

Industrial activity at a transportation facility, as defined by the federal regulations, include portions of the facility where vehicle maintenance activities occur, such as vehicle rehabilitation, mechanical repairs, painting, fueling, or equipment cleaning operations. These activities are performed at all four (4) NCTD operation and maintenance facilities; Coaster Operations Facility, Sprinter Operations Facility, Oceanside West Division Bus Maintenance Facility, and the Breeze Maintenance Operations.

NOIs have been filed with the SWRCB for all four of these facilities. In addition, SWPPPs and monitoring programs have been prepared for each of the facilities and these programs have been implemented since

12 the initiation of their permit coverage. In conjunction with NCTD’s voluntary compliance with the Phase II MS4 General Permit, NCTD will continue to comply with the IGP and maintain permit coverage for these facilities. Under the IGP, dischargers are required to control and eliminate sources of pollutants in storm water through the development and implementation of a SWPPP. The SWPPP is to be used as a tool for recognizing and evaluating potential sources of pollutants associated with industrial activities that may affect the quality of storm water discharges and authorized non-storm water discharges from the facility. The SWPPP is also to be used as a guide to help identify site-specific BMPs that are to be implemented to reduce or prevent pollutants associated with industrial activities in storm water discharges and authorized non-storm water discharges. Therefore, implementation of the SWPPPs at NCTD’s maintenance facilities is a key component to the overall SWMP.

1.4.4 Construction General Permit Storm water runoff from construction activity that results in soil disturbances of at least one acre of total land area (and projects that meet other specific criteria) is required to have coverage under the Construction General Permit (Water Quality Order No. 2010-0014-DWQ), NPDES Permit No. CAS000002. These regulations prohibit discharges of polluted storm water from construction projects that disturb one or more acres of soil unless the discharge is permitted with the CGP permit requirements. It is the responsibility of the construction site owner or landowner to obtain coverage under the CGP prior to commencement of construction activities. To obtain coverage, the operator or owner must file a NOI with a vicinity map and the appropriate fee with the SWRCB. The CGP outlines the requirements for preparation of a SWPPP. SWPPP templates for all risk level projects and Linear Underground/Overhead Projects (LUP) projects can be found in Appendix A.

1.5 Non-NPDES Permits 1.5.1 Erosion and Sediment Control Plan It is NCTD policy to require an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) for all new projects that disturb less than 1-acre of soil and involve significant soil disturbance. This program element falls under the Construction Site Runoff Control Program of the Phase II, Non-traditional MS4 Permit to prevent pollutant discharges that impact beneficial uses of receiving waters. The ESCP template is provided in Appendix B.

1.6 NCTD Pollutants of Concern 1.6.1 Storm Water Runoff Storm water runoff is part of a natural hydrologic process and contains numerous pollutants from urban and industrial activities. Pollutants in urban runoff have many potential sources. Some of the most common sources of pollutants include:

• Landscape maintenance, vehicle use and maintenance, home and building maintenance, outdoor material storage, construction, etc.; • Impervious surfaces, such as streets, rooftops, and parking lots can accumulate pollutants from drips, spills, aerial fallout, dumping, etc.; and

13 • Illegal dumping of pollutants to storm drains.

The following general pollutant categories in storm water runoff are potentially associated with NCTD operations along the ROW and transit facilities.

• Suspended solids and sediment; • Nutrients (e.g., nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers); • Heavy metals (e.g., copper, lead, zinc, and cadmium); • Pathogens (e.g., bacteria, viruses, and protozoa); • Pesticides (including herbicides); • Oil and grease; • Toxic organic compounds (e.g. petroleum products, poly-nuclear aromatic hydrocarbons); • Trash and debris; and • Oxygen demanding substance.

Table 1 NCTD Activities and potential Pollutants of Concern (POC) identifies the types of operation and maintenance activities at NCTD that may contribute pollutants into waters of the US.

Table 1: NCTD Activities and Expected Pollutants of Concern (POCs)

Potential Pollutants of Concern (POC)

g g

n n c

Relevant SWMP Responsibilities or Applicable ls ics

Project Category e

e a

General Activities n nd

1 g

t an

a t

CASQA BMP i

or Project e

trien

&Gr

Debris

Pathogens Pesticides

Trash & & Trash em

Features Orga

D Su

Oil

Park and ride: stationed Monthly street sweeping vehicles X X X X X Ridership & Users of Facilities Littering from buses, trains Trash bins inspected daily for receptacle cleanout and bike trails X X Construction for Excavation; soil stockpiles Comply with CGP and cover soil stockpiles Capital Projects such as bridge repair, X double track addition, platform addition, new Soil erosion and sediment Strategic use of BMPs identified in SWPPPs stations and Transit Centers, bluff transport stabilization, X X Pedestrian crossings

Grass Mowing, Trimming, Comply with Landscape Design and Maintenance Plan Planting, Irrigation X X X X X X

Fertilizer, Herbicide and Prohibit spraying near environmental sensitive areas

Application and within 48 hours of storm event, and comply with Pesticide X X X X the Integrated Pest Management Plan

Landscape Erosion Control (e.g. Silt Comply with CASQA Factsheets SE-1, SE-5, SE-6, and Maintenance Fence, Fiber Rolls and SC-73

Gravel Bags) X X Repair/Replacement

Tree Trimming Comply with Landscape Design and Maintenance Plan X X X X X X Blow Down Leaves and Comply with Landscape Design and Maintenance Plan X Debris X X X X X Trash/Waste Management Comply with Landscape Design and Maintenance Plan X X X X X X X

15 Potential Pollutants of Concern (POC)

g g

n n c

Relevant SWMP Responsibilities or Applicable ls ics

Project Category e

e a

General Activities n nd

1 g

t an

a t CASQA BMP i

or Project e

trien

&Gr

Debris

Pathogens Pesticides

Trash & & Trash em

Features Orga

D Su

Oil

Facility Storm Drain Follow storm drain cleaning procedure X X X X X X X Cleaning

Facility BMP (e.g. Silt Comply with CASQA Factsheets SE-1, SE-5, SE-6, and

Fence, Fiber Rolls and SC-73

Gravel Bag Berms) X X Drainage System Repair/Replacement Operation and Maintenance Rail ROW Storm Drain Comply with storm drain cleaning procedure and use X Cleaning dry methods of cleaning X X X X X Rail ROW BMP (e.g. Silt Comply with CASQA Factsheets SE-1, SE-5, SE-6, and Fence, Fiber Rolls and SC-73 Gravel Bag Berms) X X Repair/Replacement Waste Handling and Facility Trash and Recycling Comply with proper waste handling procedure X X X X X X X X X Disposal Program Parking Lot Street Sweeping Monthly dry method sweeping and good housekeeping X X X X X X X Maintenance Spot Clean Oil/Spills Implement good housekeeping practices X X X X X Striping/Painting Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-32 X X X X X Railroad ROW Access Road Grading Prepare erosion control plan X X X X Maintenance Herbicide, Pesticide, Prohibit spraying near environmental sensitive areas Fertilizer and within 48 hours of storm event, and comply with Application the Integrated Pest X X X

Repair, Grind and Replace Contain metal shavings after each use Tracks X X X X X

Material Storage Trash Storage, Handling Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-30 and Disposal X X X X X X X

Storage Practices Cover outside storage areas X X X X X

16 Potential Pollutants of Concern (POC)

g g

n n c

Relevant SWMP Responsibilities or Applicable ls ics

Project Category e

e a

General Activities n nd

1 g

t an

a t CASQA BMP i

or Project e

trien

&Gr

Debris

Pathogens Pesticides

Trash & & Trash em

Features Orga

D Su

Oil

Power Wash Platform and Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 X X X X X X Ramp Power Wash Bus Island and Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 sidewalk X X X X X

Spot Clean Shelters, Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 X X Benches and Rail X X X Clean Epoxy Floors with Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 X X X X X X Scrubber and Mop Facility Spot Clean Hardscapes Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 X X X X X X Maintenance (Rails & Signs) Blow Down Service Areas Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 X X X X Sidewalk Repair; Concrete Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 Grinding X X X X Waste Oil/Wastewater Conduct quarterly maintenance of oil/water separator X Disposal and clarifier to maintain proper function X X X X Graffiti Cleaning Use dry methods of cleaning X X X X Painting and Rust Removal Cover and contain painting and sanding operations, prevent painting over sprays X X X X X Vehicle/Train and Power Wash Fuel Island Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-71 X X X X X X Equipment Power Wash Buses and Wash vehicles in designated areas; drain connected to Maintenance Trains clarifier X X X X X X

Maintain/Repair Vehicles Comply with CASQA BMP Factsheet SC-21 and SC-22 X X X X

Fueling Vehicles/ Protect storm drains near fueling area with

Containers berms/dikes X

Table Notes: 1 CASQA, Stormwater Best Management Practice Handbook Municipal, dated January 2003.

17 Figure 1: NCTD Facilities

18 2.0 Education and Outreach

2.1 Phase II MS4 General Permit Requirements NCTD joined the Educational Residential Source (ERS) Work Group sponsored by the County of San Diego pursuant to Section F.5.b.1 of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. The ERS Group is an umbrella organization for San Diego County’s Phase 1 MS4 Permit Co-Permittees and sponsors the “Think Blue San Diego” water quality improvement campaign. The goal of this program is to educate the public about what preventative steps can be taken to reduce pollutants in storm water runoff. During 2015, NCTD implemented the “Think Blue San Diego” public education and outreach program pursuant to Section F.5. b.2. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. This program is designed to reduce pollutant discharges in storm water runoff and non-storm water discharges to the MS4 through increased storm water knowledge and awareness in target communities. NCTD implements the following public education outreach efforts annually: • Conduct surveys that gauge level of storm water pollution awareness in transit riders; • Install new posters inside each mode of transportation that conveys specific storm water messages that focuses on NCTD pollutants of concern and the solution to the pollution. • Distribute storm water pollution prevention educational materials (posters and billboards) explaining the importance of storm water pollution prevention (water conservation, non-toxic fertilizers, storm water-friendly landscaping). By the end of FY2016, NCTD implemented an illicit discharge detection and elimination (IDDE) Program pursuant to Section F.5. b.3. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. This section of the permit required NCTD to conduct training of the IDDE Program to staff and contractors, including the following: • Identification of an illicit discharge or illegal connection; • Proper procedures for reporting and responding to the illicit discharge or illegal connection; • Follow-up training provided as needed to address changes in procedures, techniques, or staffing; • Annual assessment of their trained staff’s knowledge of illicit discharge response and shall provide refresher training as needed; • Training of new staff who, as part of their normal job responsibilities may be notified of, or encounter an illicit discharge or illegal connection; and

NCTD conducts annual training to staff and contractors that perform operation and maintenance (O&M) on NCTD property pursuant to Section F.5. b.4. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. NCTD is required to provide a biennial training program for appropriate employees involved in implementing pollution prevention and good housekeeping practices. NCTD will determine the need for interim training during alternate years when training is not conducted, through an evaluation of employee Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping knowledge.

2.2 Pollution Prevention Compliance Activities 2.2.1 Public Education and Outreach NCTD was provided art files from the ERS Work Group that show common sources of pollution from household activities with solutions to mitigate storm water pollution. These art files were used by NCTD to develop posters and provide free advertising of the “Think Blue San Diego” campaign inside the Breeze, Coaster, and Sprinter (Figures 2A and 2B). These posters were developed in both English and Spanish.

19 NCTD continually implements the public education and outreach program for the Phase II, Non-Traditional MS4 Permit by setting up a public booth at transit centers and local farmers market. Transit riders are provided free pet waste bags, reusable water containers, and reusable bags for taking a short survey on residential sources of storm water pollution. A computer is also set up at the Oceanside Transit Center with a non-toxic gardening program to educate the public about gardening without toxic chemicals.

2.2.2 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Training Since 2015, NCTD has conducted annual IDDE training to comply with Section F.5.b.3 of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. This training included identification of an illicit discharge and procedures for reporting and responding to illicit discharges. The training is intended to provide clear guidance of the standard operating procedures for detecting, isolating, and fixing an illicit discharge.

NCTD developed a procedure to assess the knowledge of illicit discharge response for all NCTD staff that may encounter a storm drain spill. Using this procedure, NCTD conducts an annual assessment of staff and contractor knowledge of illicit discharge response and reporting procedures. Based on the assessment of NCTD trained staff’s and site operator/contractor’s knowledge, information gaps were identified with the site operators/contractors. Refresher training will be provided on an as-needed basis for NCTD personnel and for onboarding of new site operators/contractors. In addition, new staff who, as part of their normal job responsibilities may be notified of an illicit discharge will be trained.

2.2.3 Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping Training To comply with Section F.5.b.4 of the Phase II MS4 General Permit, NCTD conducts annual training of Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping practices. This training includes Phase II MS4 General Permit requirements, guidance documents, and best management practices for various NCTD construction, operation and maintenance activities.

2.3 Public Involvement and Participation NCTD developed, implemented, and enforced a public involvement and participation program pursuant to Section F.5.c. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. NCTD has implemented the following public involvement activities: • Installed markers on high priority storm drain inlets; labelled, stenciled or other effective method of communicating a storm water awareness message to prevent non-storm water discharges to the storm drain system; • Posted the SWMP on the NCTD public website; http://www.gonctd.com/storm-water- management-plan; • Set up an interactive computer kiosk at Oceanside Transit Center that promotes natural pesticides, and non-toxic residential gardening practices; and • Set up booths at public gatherings and give away free storm water pollution prevention calendars.

20 Figure 2: Storm Drain, Poser Art and Inlet Markers

Figure 2A: Posters at transit Centers, kiosks, booths Figure 2B: Posters at transit Centers, kiosks, booths and rail cars. and rail cars.

Figure 2C: No Dumping Storm Water marker. Figure 2D: No Dumping Storm Water marker.

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22 3.0 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination

3.1 Phase II MS4 General Permit Requirements To comply with Section F.5.d of the Phase II MS4 General Permit, NCTD developed, implemented, and enforced an IDDE Program. The Phase II MS4 General Permit defines an illicit discharge as “...any discharge to an MS4 that is not composed entirely of storm water...” with a few exceptions. These exceptions include discharges from NPDES-permitted industrial sources and discharges from fire-fighting activities. Illicit discharges from sources such as sanitary wastewater or improper oil disposal are considered “illicit” because MS4s are not designed to accept, process, or discharge such non-storm water wastes. There are three main requirements from the Phase II MS4 General Permit:

(1) Outfall Map: Create and maintain an up-to-date and accurate outfall map. This can be done in Geographical Information System (GIS). (2) Sampling: While conducting outfall mapping, sample any outfalls that are flowing or ponding for more than 72 hours after the last rain event. Indicators and action level concentration parameters can be found in the following page. (3) Corrective Actions: NCTD is required to provide written procedures for conducting investigations into the source of all non-storm water discharges suspected to be illicit discharges, including approaches to requiring such discharges to be eliminated, and procedures to implement corrective actions (e.g., BMPs).

3.2 Illicit Discharge and Elimination Compliance Activities NCTD developed an IDDE Program designed to detect, investigate and prevent illicit discharges. This program includes a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for conducting outfall and catch basin (inlet) mapping, illicit discharge inspections, dry-weather flow sampling of outfalls, and sample collection. If an illicit discharge is suspected, NCTD will sample the dry weather flow and test for indicator parameters, as shown in Figure 3-Indicator Parameters. The action levels for each indicator pollutant are shown in Figure 4-Action Level Concentrations for Indicator Parameters. An illicit discharge will be confirmed, if the action level concentrations are exceeded.

23 Figure 3: Indicator Parameters

Discharge Types It Can Detect Parameter Industrial or Tap Sewage Wash Commercial Laboratory/Analytical Challenges water Water Liquid Wastes Ammonia     Can change into other nitrogen forms as the flow travels to the outfall Color     Conductivity     Ineffective in saline waters Detergents –     Reagent is a hazardous waste Surfactants Fluoride*     Reagent is a hazardous waste Exception for communities that do not fluoridate their tap water Hardness     pH     Potassium     May need to use two separate analytical techniques, depending on the concentration Turbidity      Can almost always (>80% of samples) distinguish this discharge from clean flow types (e.g., tap water or natural water). For tap water, can distinguish from natural water.  Can sometimes (>50% of samples) distinguish this discharge from clean flow types depending on regional characteristics, or can be helpful in combination with another parameter  Poor indicator. Cannot reliably detect illicit discharges, or cannot detect tap water N/A: Data are not available to assess the utility of this parameter for this purpose. Data sources: Pitt (this study) *Fluoride is a poor indicator when used as a single parameter, but when combined with additional parameters (such as detergents, ammonia and potassium), it can almost always distinguish between sewage and wash water.

Figure 4: Action Level Concentrations for Indicator Parameters

Indicator Parameter Action Level concentration

Ammonia >= 50 mg/L Color >= 500 units Conductivity >= 2,000 µS/cm <= 10 mg/L as CaCO3 or Hardness >=2,000 mg/L as CaCO3 pH <= 5 or>= 9 Potassium >= 20 mg/L Turbidity >= 1,000 NTU

24 3.2.1 Outfall Mapping

To comply with Section F.5. d.1. of the Phase II MS4 Permit, NCTD developed an Outfall Map. In Year 2, NCTD received GIS data from neighboring municipalities and incorporated GIS storm drain infrastructure data into the storm water GIS database. NCTD requested GIS data layers composed of storm drain infrastructure, including inlets, outfalls, channels and other related features from the following entities:

• County of San Diego; • California Department of Transportation; • City of Oceanside; • City of Carlsbad; • City of Encinitas; • City of Escondido; • City of San Marcos; • City of Solana Beach; • City of Del Mar; and • City of Vista.

3.2.2 FRA and CPUC Inspections NCTD also conducts annual inspections of the storm drain structures along the railroad ROW to comply with CPUC and FRA regulations to ensure drainage structures within the ROW are clear of trash, debris, and sediment. The inspection reports have been incorporated into the Outfall Map, which is part of a GIS Storm Drain Database. The documentation included the following information; the condition of the storm drain structures, percent of sediment, debris, trash in the storm drain structure, evidence of erosion and sediment discharges, photographs, and GPS coordinates of each storm drain structure. The inspection reports were uploaded to the web-based Outfall Map with photographs.

3.2.3 IDDE Field Investigation and Sampling Program During 2015, NCTD developed a standard operating procedures (SOP) for the collection of dry-weather flow from outfalls to detect potential illicit discharges pursuant to Section F.5. d.2. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. NCTD follows the SOP, if a dry weather flow is sampled on NCTD property. The analytical results of any sampled dry weather flow are reported in SMARTS as part of the annual reporting activity.

When a potential dry weather flow is reported on NCTD property, a source investigation is conducted pursuant to Section F.5.d.3 of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. The source investigation process includes written procedures for tracking suspected illicit discharges to a source using drainage area investigations, storm drain network investigations, and on-site investigations. The corrective action process includes reporting, enforcement and methods to eliminate discharges.

25 4.0 Construction Site Storm Water Runoff Control

To comply with Section F.5.e. of the Phase II MS4 general permit, NCTD incorporated CGP requirements into new contracts, licenses, and easements to ensure vendors and contractors are abiding by the CGP and implementing appropriate BMPs. The CGP contract language applies to all projects that result in a total land disturbance of either 1-acre or more or that result in a total land disturbance of less than one acre if part of a larger common plan or development or sale. NCTD has incorporated the necessary storm water compliance requirements into all contracts referencing the IGP, CGP, Phase II MS4 General Permit, and the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP). NCTD has implemented a Construction Site Runoff Control Program by requiring NPDES permits and an ESCP to prevent discharges of pollutants and impacts to beneficial uses of receiving waters. Effective July 1, 2014, NCTD has implemented the provisions of the Construction Site Storm Water Runoff Control Program.

4.1 Construction General Permit Construction sites that are subject to the CGP are required to develop and submit all permit registration documents per the procedure described in this Section. Permit registration documents include the Notice of Intent (NOI), the Risk Assessment, a Site Map, the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), the Annual Fee, and the Certification. A SWPPP must be developed for the construction project to meet the requirements of the state General Construction Permit Order 2009- 0009 DWQ as amended by 2010-0014-DWQ and 2012-0006-DWQ. NCTD has developed specific SWPPP Templates for all construction activities within its right-of-way that disturb one acre or more or are part of a larger plan of development that disturb more than one acre. NCTD SWPPP Templates can be found in Appendix A. To obtain a copy of these and other documents follow the link below: http://www.gonctd.com

Construction projects that are subject to the CGP and meet the following definition must develop and implement a SWPPP for Linear Underground/Overhead Project (LUP). NCTD SWPPP Template for LUPs can be found in Appendix A.

“Linear Underground/Overhead Project (LUP)” include, but are not limited to, any conveyance, pipe, or pipeline for the transportation of any gaseous, liquid (including water and wastewater for domestic municipal services), liquiescent, or slurry substance; any cable line or wire for the transmission of electrical energy; any cable line or wire for communications (e.g., telephone, telegraph, radio, or television messages); and associated ancillary facilities. Construction activities associated with LUPs include, but are not limited to, (a) those activities necessary for the installation of underground and overhead linear facilities (e.g., conduits, substructures, pipelines, towers, poles, cables, wires, connectors, switching, regulating and transforming equipment, and associated ancillary facilities); and include, but are not limited to, (b) underground utility mark-out, potholing, concrete and asphalt cutting and removal, trenching, excavation, boring and drilling, access road and pole/tower pad and cable/wire pull station, substation construction, substructure installation, construction of tower footings and/or foundations, pole and tower installations, pipeline installations, welding, concrete and/or pavement repair or replacement, and stockpile/borrow locations.

26 NCTD requires that all construction activities covered by the CGP comply with the following process:

1. The designer, or assigned Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD), is responsible for performing a risk determination and preparing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The SWPPP must be revised by the designer, or assigned QSD, based on the comments issued by NCTD’s Legally Responsible Person (LRP) or Approved Signatory (AS). 2. The contractor, or assigned QSD, is responsible for amending and preparing the Permit Registration Documents (PRDs), which include the NOI, risk determination and SWPPP that must be signed by NCTD’s LRP or AS and submitted to the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) via the Storm Water Multi-Application, Reporting, and Tracking System (SMARTS). Before issuing a start order for construction activities, NCTD will require proof of CGP coverage: o Prior to the issuance of a start order, the contractor shall demonstrate that coverage has been obtained under the CGP by providing a copy of the Notice of Intent (NOI) submitted to the SWRCB, a copy of the subsequent notification of the issuance of a Waste Discharge Identification (WDID) Number, a copy of the current SWPPP, or other proof of filing. A copy of the current SWPPP required by the CGP shall be kept at the project site and be available for review by NCTD inspection staff upon request. 3. Once the contractor receives a start order, it is the responsibility of the contractor or delegated person to ensure a QSD amends the SWPPP, if required, and that it is implemented year-round throughout the duration of the project’s construction. Amendment of the SWPPP is required if site conditions change, or if properly installed systems are ineffective. The contractor is also required to ensure that a designated Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) is responsible for implementation of the current SWPPP, as required by the CGP. 4. NCTD inspection staff will inspect and enforce local permit(s) and ordinances, to ensure that all necessary sediment controls are in place, BMPs are installed, and pollutants of concern are not discharged into receiving water bodies. The frequency of inspection is identified in Section 4.5.2. 5. Once project construction is completed and the site fully complies with the final stabilization requirements of the CGP, the contractor, or designated QSD, will submit a Notice of Termination (NOT) via the SMARTS system to the SWRCB.

4.2.2 Requirements for Construction Projects Not Covered by the Construction General Permit NCTD reviews Work Plans for Right-of-Entry Permits to determine if an ESCP is required. ESCPs have storm water BMPs consistent with the CASQA construction handbook to meet the minimum requirements defined in Table 2. ESCPs must show proposed locations of the erosion and sediment control BMPs that will be implemented during the construction project. NCTD has developed a specific ESCP Template for all construction activities not covered by the CGP within its right-of-way. NCTD’s ESCP Template can be found in Appendix B.

Table 2: Minimum ESCP Requirements

Pollutant Category Minimum ESCP Requirements

Sediments from areas disturbed by construction shall be retained on site using an effective combination of erosion and sediment Erosion and Sediment controls to the maximum extent practicable, and stockpiles of soil Control shall be properly contained to minimize sediment transport from the site to streets, drainage facilities or adjacent properties via runoff, vehicle tracking, or wind. Construction-related materials, wastes, spills or residues shall be Waste and Materials retained on site to minimize transport from the site to streets, drainage Management Control facilities, or adjoining property by wind or runoff.

4.3 Construction Site Inventory NCTD maintains a comprehensive construction site inventory of all construction projects with active or proposed CGPs. For each construction project that triggers the development of a CGP, the inventory will be updated by NCTD during the design process. NCTD will request that the QSD provide NCTD a copy of the draft SWPPP for review and approval, prior to obtaining a Notice of Intent (NOI) to file the CGP with the RWQCB. NCTD Engineering Department will review the draft SWPPP pursuant to the following information: • Relevant contact information for each project; • The basic site information including location, status, size of the project, and area of disturbance; • Anticipated start date of the construction project; • Project’s risk level pursuant to the approved SWPPP (Level or Type 1, 2 or 3); • Anticipated project start date and completion date; • Example SWPPP Weekly Inspection Reports; • The project will be marked as complete upon receipt of NOT by the Water Board.

29 4.4 Construction Plan Review and Approval Procedures Prior to the issuance of any start order for construction, NCTD implements the following procedure to ensure approval of construction plans: a) NCTD reviews and prepares comment on 30, 60, and 90-percent design plans prepared by the design consultant, including the SWPPPs. b) SWPPP templates are provided in Appendix A, or the Construction contractor can use their own templates. The contractor is responsible for uploading the final SWPPP for construction. c) NCTD applies for the Notice of Intent (NOI) and approves the final SWPPP. i. For each SWPPP uploaded to SMARTs, NCTD Project Manager will verify that it addresses the minimum requirements, including the following: 1. CGP risk determination 2. Maps and design plans 3. Methods to minimize storm water discharges 4. Rationale for selecting sediment and erosion control BMPs 5. Ensure all environmental permits for the project are identified, including permits obtained from the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, U.S. Army Corps. Of Engineers, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

30 4.5 Construction Site Inspection and Enforcement 4.5.1 Inspection Responsibilities Separate from CGP inspections, NCTD or its contractors will perform inspections at active construction sites, to verify that the requirements set forth in the current SWPPPs and Phase II MS4 Permit are implemented and maintained pursuant to the CGP and Phase II MS4 Permit requirements. Construction sites are inspected prior to land disturbance, during active construction and at the end of the project to ensure that all disturbed areas have been stabilized.

4.5.2 Phase II MS4 Permit Inspection Frequencies NCTD or the contractor will inspect construction sites, as follows:

• Prior to land disturbance, NCTD will ensure that all necessary sediment controls are in place, in conformance with the SWPPP or ESCP;

• During active construction, NCTD will conduct inspections a minimum of once per month for BMP maintenance and effectiveness, and verification that pollutants of concern are not discharged into receiving water bodies; and

• At the end of a project, NCTD will inspect site conditions to ensure that all disturbed areas have been stabilized and all temporary erosion and sediment control measures that are no longer needed have been removed.

4.5.3 SWPPP Inspection Documentation Procedures NCTD has developed SWPPP Inspection Checklists to be used by assigned QSP and NCTD inspection staff. The contractor, or assigned SWPPP QSP, must submit all completed SWPPP Checklists to NCTD’s Authorized Signatory (AS) within 24-hours of completion. Records of all inspections and non-compliance reporting will be retained for a period of at least three years. Records will also be uploaded by the SWPPP holder to the SMARTS system during the annual reporting process to the SWRCB.

4.5.4 CGP and ESCP Enforcement Actions Threat to water quality will be assessed by inspectors for construction site runoff that is not reasonably controlled by the BMPs in place or if a failure of BMP results in the release of sediments or other pollutants. Violations observed will be documented by the inspectors. If a significant and/or immediate threat to water quality is observed by an inspector, action will be taken to require the contractor to immediately cease the discharge. Depending on the violation, the inspector may choose to utilize contract language as the basis for enforcement. Enforcement actions shall be undertaken by NCTD based on the severity of the non-compliance, as follows: • Verbal warning; or • Written warning under the form of a field memorandum, a work correction memorandum, a notice of non-compliance, an administrative compliance order, and a stop work order; or • Civil and criminal court actions.

31 4.5.5 Non-Compliance Reporting The Regional Board will be notified of non-compliant construction projects that pose a threat to human or environmental health. Oral notification to the Regional Board of non-compliant construction sites that are determined to pose a threat to human or environmental health will be provided within 24-hours of the discovery of non-compliance. Such oral notification shall be followed up by a written report and submitted through SMARTS within 5 days of the incidence of non-compliance. The written report will identify the type(s) of non-compliance, describe the actions necessary to achieve compliance, and include a time schedule indicating when compliance will be achieved. Noncompliant sites subject to the CGP will also be reported through SMARTS as part of NCTD’s annual report to the SWRCB.

4.6 Program Effectiveness Assessment The Program Effectiveness Assessment and Improvement Plan (PEAIP) is submitted to the SWRCB every year. Its purpose is to assist NCTD to adaptively manage its storm water program and make necessary modifications to the program to improve the program effectiveness, reduce pollutants of concern, achieve the MEP standard, protect water quality, and document NCTD’s compliance with the MS4 permit requirements. The PEAIP will identify the strategy used to gauge the effectiveness of prioritized storm water BMPs and program implementation. The prioritized BMPs will be discussed pursuant to pollutants of concern, including activities related to industrial, construction, and maintenance of way activities.

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33 5.0 Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping

5.1 Phase II MS4 Permit Requirements

Section F.5.f. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit requires NCTD to develop and implement an operation and maintenance program that includes personnel training to prevent storm water pollutant runoff from municipal operations. In the case for NCTD, the municipal operations are those related to operation and maintenance of the maintenance facilities, transit stations and centers, offices, and ROW. These operations include activities such as building maintenance (e.g. painting), landscape maintenance, parking lot repair, cleaning equipment, material handling and storage, and trash collecting or recycling. The program is required to specifically address the following general areas: • Develop and implement an inventory of NCTD Owned and operated facilities; • Up to date SWPPPs to comply with the IGP; Figure 5: Vehicle Washing Station • Storm drain infrastructure Inspections, monitoring, and cleaning;

• Oversight of operations and maintenance activities to ensure appropriate BMPs are implemented.

5.2 Inventory of Owned and Operated Facilities During the second year of the effective date of the Phase II MS4 General Permit, NCTD created GIS maps of all NCTD-owned and operated facilities, including known outfalls, inlets, and nearby receiving waters. The maps identify the facility by name, address, manager of each facility and their contact information. This information will be updated annually.

5.3 Facility Assessment NCTD conducted a comprehensive inspection and assessment of pollutant discharge activities and identification of pollutant hotspots. This assessment evaluated all municipally owned or operated facilities to determine their potential to impact surface waters. Those facilities that had a high potential to generate storm water and non-storm water pollutants were identified as pollutant hotspots and assigned a high priority. There are several factors to consider for pollutant hotspots: type and volume of pollutants stored at the site, the presence of improperly stored materials, activities that should not be performed outside, proximity to water bodies, poor housekeeping practices, and the discharge of pollutants of concern to receiving waters. NCTD concluded the hot spots were the four (4) maintenance facilities which are covered under the IGP.

Based on the inventory of the facilities, the inspections included identifying the type and volume of potential pollutants stored at each facility, the presence of improperly stored materials, activities that should not be performed outside, proximity to water bodies, poor housekeeping practices, and 34 the discharge of pollutant(s) of concern to receiving water(s). All inspections have been documented using standard forms developed for the facility assessment procedure. NCTD conducts an annual review and assessment of all NCTD owned and operated facilities to determine if any additional hot spots exist at NCTD, which have the potential to discharge pollutants into storm water.

5.4 Facility-Specific Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans NCTD ensures that facility specific SWPPPs are currently developed, implemented, and enforced at each of the four operation and maintenance facilities to comply with the requirements of the IGP. These facility SWPPPs consist of an evaluation of the sources of pollution and provide a description of the practices and program elements to reduce pollutants in areas Figure 6: Visual Inspection of the Sprinter Right-of-Way identified as being potential pollutant

sources to the storm water system. Additionally, the plans describe the sampling, inspection and frequency requirements placed on the District or the designated contractor(s) operating the operation and maintenance facilities, in which storm water runoff samples are taken. NCTD makes these plans available to any requesting party by contacting the MS4 Project Manager. The SWPPPs address the following:

• Evaluation of activities causing pollution sources (e.g. using the bus washer, spilled lubricants from maintenance activities, oil storage tank, etc.); • Evaluation of pollution of concern (e.g. grease, detergents, paints, antifreeze, etc.); • Evaluation of methods (e.g. New Motor Oil: store in four 250-gallon aboveground storage tanks); • Program elements to reduce pollutants; • Monitoring methods; • Facility storm water investigations; • Responsibility; • Training; and • Recordkeeping.

5.5 Inspections, Visual Monitoring, and Remedial Action Section F.5.f.5 of the Phase II MS4 General Permit requires inspections, visual monitoring, and remedial action to mitigate storm water pollution in areas known to receive citizen complaints for excessive erosion, and large volumes of storm water runoff. During FY19, three (3) hotspots were identified within the City of Oceanside. Two (2) of these 3 areas have been incorporated into the San Luis Rey Watershed SWPPP, and one (1) area near the Buena Vista Lagoon has been

35 incorporated into the Carlsbad Watershed SWPPP. All 3 of these hot spots will continue to be monitored on a quarterly basis, including maintenance of existing BMPs.

5.6 Storm Drain System Assessment and Prioritization The Phase II MS4 General Permit required NCTD to assess and prioritize storm drain structures for the development of a storm drain maintenance program. NCTD assigned a high priority to each storm drain structure known for the following: • Discharge directly or indirectly to sensitive water bodies, including 303(d) listed water; • Known to accumulate sediment, trash and/or debris; • Large volumes of runoff from drainage area exposed to disturbed soil; • Regular street sweeping debris; • Catch basins that receive citizen complaints/reports.

5.7 Storm Drain Maintenance Program NCTD has inspected “high priority” storm drain structures on an annual basis to assess, whether cleaning or BMP maintenance is required. All “high priority” storm drain structures are inspected, prior to the rain season (October through April). There are approximately 350 “high priority” storm drain structures inspected every year along the Coaster and Sprinter ROW. NCTD developed a Storm Drain Cleaning Form and procedure to support the storm drain system maintenance activities conducted by maintenance of way personnel.

At a minimum, NCTD shall:

• Inspect storm drain systems – Includes culverts, outfalls, ditches, catch basins, and curb gutters in high priority areas on an annual basis and determine if cleaning is required. • Clean storm drains – Implement a schedule to clean high priority catch basins and other systems. Frequencies of maintenance depend on priority areas, with higher priority areas receiving more demand for cleaning. • Label catch basins – Ensure that high priority catch basins in high foot traffic areas include a legible storm water awareness message such as “Drains to the Ocean”. Catch basins with unreadable labels shall be recorded and relabeled. • Maintain surface drainage structures – high priority facilities, such as those with recurrent illegal dumping, shall be reviewed and maintained annually as needed. Non-priority facilities shall be reviewed as needed. Removal of trash and debris from high priority areas shall occur annually prior to the rainy season. • Dispose of waste materials – develop and implement a procedure to dewater and dispose of materials extracted from catch basins. This procedure shall ensure that water removed during the catch basin cleaning process and waste material will not reenter the MS4. • Inspect integrity of existing BMPs and determine if additional BMPs are required to mitigate erosion and sediment discharges.

36 5.8 Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Activities

In 2016, NCTD began quarterly inspections of BMPs implemented during O&M activities and assessed whether the O&M activity could potentially discharge pollutants into the storm water system. At a minimum, NCTD is required to do the following:

• Implement a program to assess contractor O&M and BMP implementation activities on a quarterly basis. O&M activities include, but are not limited to the following: o Landscaping activities o Waste handling; trash assessment at operational facilities o Facility maintenance; power washing activities and general good housekeeping o Road and parking lot maintenance, including sidewalk repair, curb and gutter repair, pothole repair, pavement marking, sealing, and re- paving; o Bridge maintenance, including re- chipping, grinding, saw cutting, and painting; o Right-of-way maintenance, Figure 7: Typical Maintenance Activity including mowing, herbicide and

pesticide application, and planting vegetation; o Graffiti removal; and o Vehicle and train maintenance • Identify materials that could be discharged from each of these O&M activities, and which materials contain pollutants. Typical pollutants of concern include nutrients, metals, chlorides, hydrocarbons, sediment, green waste, herbicide, pathogens, oil and grease, toxic organic compounds, pesticides, dried paint, and trash. • Evaluate Contractor’s existing storm water pollution prevention BMPs and determine if modified or new BMPs are warranted.

5.9 Landscape Design and Maintenance In the second year of the effective date of the Phase II MS4 General Permit, NCTD began implementation of a landscape design and maintenance program to reduce the amount of water, pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers used during NCTD’s operation and maintenance activities of landscaping areas at parking lots and transit stations. NCTD was required to evaluate and implement practices that reduce the discharge of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers, mainly in the ROW. This includes educational activities for NCTD staff, coordination with maintenance and landscape contractors, and consideration of landscape management that relies on non-chemical solutions. These types of measures for non-chemical solutions include:

• Create drought-resistant soils by amending soils with compost; • Create soil microbial community through the use of compost, compost tea, or inoculation; • Use native and/or climate appropriate plants to reduce the amount of water, pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers used; • Practice grass cycling on decorative turf landscapes to reduce water sue and the need for fertilizers; • Keeping grass clippings and leaves away from water ways and out of the street using mulching, composting, or landfilling; • Preventing application of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers during irrigation or within 48 hours of predicted rainfall with greater than 50% probability as predicted by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); • Limiting or replacing herbicide and pesticide use (manual weed and insect removal); • Prohibiting application of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers as required by the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) 11-004 Prevention of Surface Water Contamination by Pesticides enacted by the Department of Pesticide Regulation; and • Reducing mowing of grass to allow for greater pollutant removal, but not jeopardizing public safety.

In addition, the last steps of implementation include collecting and properly disposing of unused pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Lastly, minimize irrigation run-off by using an evapotranspiration- based irrigation schedule and rain sensors. To support the Landscape Design and Maintenance Management, NCTD has prepared a Landscape Design and Maintenance Management Plan (LDM). The LDM identifies steps to be taken to reduce the use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and water. Landscaping on NCTD properties provides both a potential pollution source and a means to prevent storm water pollution. Multiple facets during the landscape design phase need to be evaluated to:

• Ensure the landscape design does not contribute contaminants to storm water run-off; and • Identify ways the landscape design can actually reduce pollution in storm water run-off from the newly landscaped and adjacent areas.

The LDM discusses the following:

• BMPs for pollution prevention, both source and non-source control; • Proper plant design (type, layout, etc.) and irrigation design (layout, sizing, automation, weather tracking, etc.) to reduce pollutant run-off; • Considerations for maintenance of the landscaping during the design process to reduce pollutants (fertilizers, etc.) in run-off; • Pesticide, herbicide and fertilizer management; • Plant and grass maintenance; • Irrigation maintenance;

38 • Proper disposal of used chemicals; and • Training and education. NCTD has also prepared an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan. NCTD’s IMP Plan is designed to standardize specific work practices at NCTD which are performed by contractors across multiple sites. The specific pest prevention and control measures explained in the IMP Plan are aimed at pest management applications at NCTD’s built facilities and rights-of-way. The IMP Plan discusses the following:

• Licensing of pest management personnel; • Pest management methods; • Criteria for choosing a pest management method; • Pesticides approved for use by NCTD; • Notification of pesticides use at a facility; • Using pesticides on NCTD property; • Record keeping; • Pesticide application by NCTD contractors; • Transportation of pesticides; • Use of remaining pesticide solutions and rinses; • Disposal of empty pesticide containers; • Use of protective clothing and equipment; • Emergency information concerning accidental pesticide exposure; • Pesticide spill response; • Worker protection standards; and • Waterways pest management.

Within these standardized work practices, NCTD professionals will evaluate the methods selected to manage specific pest populations on a case-by-case basis.

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40 6.0 Post-Construction Storm Water Management Program

6.1 Phase II MS4 General Permit Requirements Section F.5.g. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit requires NCTD to regulate development to comply with permit sections that address the following:

• Site Design Measures; • Low Impact Development Design Standards; and • Operation and Maintenance of Post Construction Storm Water Management Measures.

6.2 Site Design Measures All projects that create and/or replace between 2,500 and 5,000 square feet of impervious surface will need to implement one or more site design measures. The purpose of site design measures is to reduce the type and quantity of pollutants in storm water runoff and reduce the quantity of storm water delivered to receiving waters during storm events. The Phase II MS4 General Permit lists site design measures as stream setbacks and buffers, soil quality improvement, tree planting, rooftop/impervious area disconnection, porous pavement, green roofs, vegetated swale, or rain barrels and cisterns. This is including projects with no net increase in impervious footprint that create and/or replace 2,500 square feet or more of impervious surface and are not part of a larger plan of development. Project Proponents are required to use the SWRCB Post-Construction Calculator, or equivalent to quantify the runoff reduction resulting from implementation of site design measures.

6.3 Low Impact Development Standards NCTD will regulate all development projects that create and/or replace 5,000 square feet or more of impervious surface (Regulated Projects). NCTD will require these Regulated Projects to implement measures for site design, source control, runoff reduction, storm water treatment, and baseline hydromodification management as defined in this Phase II MS4 General Permit. Regulated Projects do not include interior remodels or routine maintenance or repair such as: exterior wall surface replacement, roof replacement or pavement resurfacing within the existing footprint. Figure 8: A Post-Construction Swale BMP Culvert

treating run-on and run-off from NCTD Right-of-Way Regulated Projects include development and redevelopment projects on public and private land. Development includes new construction and redevelopment projects are any land-disturbing activity that results in the creation, addition, or replacement of exterior impervious surface area on a site where some past development has occurred. 41 By the second year of the effective date of the permit, NCTD began implementing LID and site design measures by incorporating these MS4 Permit requirements into the Los-Angeles-San Luis Obispo-San Diego (LOSSAN) design criteria document developed by SANDAG for capital projects. All projects creating over 2,500 ft. of impervious surface are required to be designed consistent with recommendations from the CASQA Storm Water BMP Handbook for New Development and Redevelopment or equivalent manual.

NCTD requires numeric sizing criteria for storm water retention and treatment in accordance with Section F.5.g.2.a of the General Permit. NCTD requires facilities designed to infiltrate, harvest and use, and biotreat storm water to meet either a volumetric or flow-based hydraulic sizing design criteria. Volumetric criteria consist of two options: • The maximized capture storm water volume for the tributary area of the 85th percentile 24-hour storm runoff event. This formula can be found in the Urban Runoff Quality Management, Water Environment Federation (WEF) Manual of Practice No.23/ASCE Manual of Practice No. 87(1998) pages 175-178. • The volume of annual runoff required to achieve 80 percent or more capture using local rainfall data.

Flow-based criteria consist of two options: • The flow of runoff produced from a rain event has at least 0.2 inches per hour of intensity. • The flow of runoff produced from a rain event equal to at least two times the 85th percentile hourly rainfall intensity as determined from local rainfall records.

Site design measures shall be based on the objective of achieving infiltration, evapotranspiration and/or harvesting/reuse of the 85th percentile rainfall event, to the extent feasible. Any remaining runoff from impervious drainage management areas may then be directed to one or more bioretention facilities that meets the conditions set forth in Section F.5.g.2.d (Storm Water Treatment Measures and Baseline Hydromodification Management Measures) of the Permit. After completion of site design measures for LID compliance, remaining runoff from impervious drainage management areas must be directed to one or more facilities designed to infiltrate, evapotranspire, and/or biotreat the amount of runoff specified in the Numeric Sizing Criteria for Storm Water Retention and Treatment (Section F.5.g.2.b. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit).

6.4 Operation and Maintenance Verification Program During the third year of the effective permit date, NCTD developed an Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Verification Program for new development projects regulated by the Phase II MS4 General Permit, consistent with the requirements set forth in Provision F.5.g.4. of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. The O&M Verification Program includes a database of projects requiring Post-Construction Storm Water Management, such as projects with site design and LID features. These projects have a legally enforceable agreement or mechanism that assigns the O&M responsibility for the installed BMPs to NCTD or other entities implementing storm water treatment measures and hydromodification management controls within NCTD right-of-way. The database includes any pertinent information about 42 the Regulated Project, treatment system, hydromodification control measure and responsible operators. Additionally, NCTD is required to ensure that all treatment systems and hydromodification controls are installed and maintained properly.

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44 7.0 Program Effectiveness Assessment and Improvement Plan (PEAIP)

By the second year of the Phase II MS4 Permit, NCTD was required to prepare a PEAIP. The PEAIP was prepared and submitted to SMARTS by October 15, 2015. On an annual basis, NCTD will collect data to assess the program effectiveness and to identify potential program improvements through an iterative process of evaluation and improvement in each of the relevant program components identified in the PEAIP.

NCTD prepared the PEAIP in accordance with the guidance document titled, A Strategic Approach to Planning for and Assessing the Effectiveness of Stormwater Programs (CASQA, 2015a) and the template and guidance document titled Program Effectiveness Assessment and Improvement Plan Framework for Non-Traditional MS4s (CASQA, 2015b). This CASQA guidance calls for the identification of high priority Pollutants of Concern (POCs) based on the 2010 303(d) list, common pollutants of concern for the MS4 Permittees, and professional judgement based on NCTD’s operations. Based on these factors, NCTD identified sediment as a high priority POC. No other POCs were identified as high priority using the CASQA process. The General Program Elements determined to be most relevant to the Sediment POC were the Construction Site Runoff Control Program and the Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Permittee Operations, which is consistent with the CASQA sediment example (CASQA, 2015b).

NCTD has prepared and submitted Effectiveness Assessment (EA) reports to SMARTS as part of the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 Annual Reports. The EA is intended to assess the storm water program’s effectiveness to reduce receiving water impacts from potential MS4 sediment contributions; and identify storm water program refinements to increase the effectiveness of the program. The EAs address NCTD’s BMP activities to comply with the Phase II MS4 General Permit Program elements; Education and Outreach, Public Involvement and Participation, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Construction Site Runoff Control Program, Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping, and Post Construction Storm Water Management. On an annual basis, the EA will be updated and submitted to SMARTs.

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46 8.0 Total Maximum Daily Loads Compliance Requirements

A Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) is defined as the maximum amount of a pollutant that can be discharged into a waterbody from all sources and still maintain water quality standards. Under CWA Section 303(d), TMDLs must be developed for all waterbodies that do not meet water quality standards, after application of technology-based controls. The MS4 Phase II General Permit requires Permittees identified in Attachment G of the permit to demonstrate compliance with Section F.5.1.i of the permit.

NCTD is listed in Attachment G of the Phase II MS4 General Permit as one (1) of a Phase II Entity for the Bacteria Project I TMDL – Twenty Beaches and Creeks in the San Diego Region (Including Tecolote Creek) (Bacteria Project I), and Los Penasquitos Lagoon Sediment TMDLs.

Figure 9: San Diego Region Watersheds

NCTD is currently conducting activities to comply with the Bacteria Project I and Los Penasquitos Lagoon Sediment TMDL requirements, including preparation of SWPPPs for NCTD’s ROW and facilities that discharge either directly or indirectly to waterbodies identified in Attachment G of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. NCTD has identified four watersheds or sub-watersheds, San Luis

47 Rey HU, San Marcos HA, San Dieguito HU, and Miramar Reservoir HA, with Bacteria Project I impaired beaches that have the potential to receive indirect discharges from NCTD’s ROW. The SWPPPs will include a description of potential pollutant sources, existing and/or recommended BMPs, identification of sampling locations, sampling methodology, and frequency of sampling.

NCTD will collect and analyze storm water samples during dry and wet weather conditions from identified locations according to the SWPPPs. NCTD will post the sampling results to SMARTS and will share the sampling results with Watershed Management Groups formed by adjacent municipalities that are MS4 Phase I Permittees. Table 3 presents impaired water bodies with approved TMDLs near NCTD’s ROW and/or facilities.

Table 3: Summary of Water Bodies with Approved TMDLs Near NCTD's ROW and/or Facilities

Watershed Hydrologic Impaired Water Body Watershed

Number Area Segment

Bacteria Bacteria Sediment

Lower San Pacific Ocean Shoreline at San Luis Rey 903.00 X Luis Rey River San Luis Rey River Mouth

Pacific Ocean Shoreline at Carlsbad 904.00 San Marcos Moonlight State Beach X (Cottonwood Creek outlet) Pacific Ocean Shoreline at San Dieguito 905.00 Solana Beach San Dieguito Lagoon Mouth X at San Dieguito River Beach Pacific Ocean Shoreline at Miramar Penasquitos 906.00 Los Penasquitos River Reservoir X mouth Miramar Penasquitos 906.00 Los Penasquitos Lagoon X Reservoir Table Notes: Refer to Figure 9 showing watershed numbers and locations

48 9.0 Trash Provisions

On June 1, 2017, the SWRCB issued a Water Code Section 13383 Order requiring the selection and submittal of the method NCTD will use to comply with the statewide Trash Provisions (Trash Provisions) and to submit an Implementation Plan. NCTD has selected the Track 2 option, and prepared and submitted a Trash Implementation Plan. The selection of Track 2 option enabled NCTD to utilize a combination of controls (e.g. Full Capture Systems, Multi-Benefit Projects, other Treatment Controls, and/or Institutional Controls) to achieve full capture equivalency.

In its implementation plan, NCTD identified its transit centers, transit stations, and administrative buildings as Priority Land Use (PLU) areas that have the potential to generate substantial amounts of trash. The Trash Implementation Plan also identifies annual milestones to achieve full capture equivalency within ten (10) years of the effective date of the first implementing permit (Phase II MS4 Permit) or no later than fifteen (15) years from the effective date of the Statewide Trash Amendments (December 2, 2015). NCTD has implemented the On-Land Visual Trash Assessment Protocol at NCTD’s PLU areas.

On an annual basis, NCTD conducts wet and dry weather trash assessments at 23 NCTD facilities pursuant to the Trash Implementation Plan developed during Year 6 of the Phase II MS4 General Permit. The trash assessment is conducted pursuant to the Tracking California's Trash Project, Evaluation of the On-Land Visual Assessment Protocol as a Method to Establish Baseline Levels of Trash and detect Improvements in Storm Water Quality (EOA, Inc. and Keish Environmental, 2018). Based on the trash assessment results, NCTD updates the trash assessment maps pursuant to the Trash Implementation Plan. NCTD has conducted the baseline trash assessment for NCTD’s Priority Land Uses (PLUs) and assigned trash generation ratings in accordance with the On-Land Visual Trash Assessment (OVTA) approach recommended by the SWRCB. Each PLU location was divided into assessment areas prior to conducting the OVTA. A transect was assigned to each assessment area and delineated on a map to allow future assessments to occur along the same transect for consistency. A transect is a generally straight line along which inspection staff will walk and record observation of trash accumulation. The baseline assessment is a requirement of the Trash Provisions under the Track 2 and was conduct during wet and dry seasons. The Trash Implementation Plan represents NCTD’s path towards compliance with the Trash Provisions. NCTD anticipates additional trash provisions in the new Phase II, Non-Traditional MS4 General Permit anticipated to be amended by January 2021.

49 10.0 References

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Waste Discharge Requirements (WDRs) for Storm Water Discharges from Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) Order NO. 2013-0001-DWQ NPDES NO. CAS000004.

NCTD Storm Water Management Plan, dated June 2014.

CASQA, 2015a, A Strategic Approach to Planning for and Assessing the Effectiveness of Stormwater Programs, dated February.

CASQA, 2015b, Program Effectiveness Assessment and Improvement Plan Framework for Non- Traditional MS4s, dated June.

SWRCB, 2017a, Water Code Section 13383 Order to Submit Method to Comply with Statewide Trash Provisions; Requirements for Non‐Traditional Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permittees, June 1.

EOA Inc. and Keish Environmental, 2018, On-Land Visual Trash Assessment for Stormwater; Protocol C – Area Based Survey – Establishing baseline levels of trash generation and assessing changes in trash levels.

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51 Appendix A: SWPPP Templates

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To access the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Templates, please refer to the following NCTD web page: http://www.gonctd.com/storm-water-management-plan

Select Appendix A for the appropriate document from the menu.

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Appendix B: Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Template

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To access the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan Template, please refer to the following NCTD web page: http://www.gonctd.com/storm-water-management-plan

Select Appendix B for the appropriate document from the menu.