Dear Reader/editor,
On behalf of the Taiya Inlet Watershed Council, I would like to thank you for taking the
time to read through this document, comment, and edit it. The final product will be a
manual for the community to use as a guide to reduce stormwater pollution to Pullen
Creek, so it’s important that the definition of stormwater pollution and its sources are
clearly stated in the manual. It is also very important that the community have input,
since we are a community-based organization. Please feel free to mark this up, tell me
what isn’t clear, suggest changes, etc. You can then email it back to me
taiyawatershed@gmail.com or you can stop by the watershed office just east of 7th and
Broadway. This manual must be finished by July 20, 2012 so please consider that.
Sincerely,
Rachel Ford
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Section 1. Introduction
The development of this manual was a cooperative effort that relied on energies at the
local and state levels. It was funded with monies from the Alaska Clean Water Action
(ACWA) grant program through the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
(ADEC) managed by the Taiya Inlet Watershed Council (TIWC) in Skagway, Alaska.
Support and interviews with members of the Skagway community, the Municipality of
Skagway, the Skagway Traditional Council, Alaska Power & Telephone, and White Pass
and Yukon Route Railroad were all very valuable in the process of producing this
document.
Special thanks to…
Goal
The goal of this manual is to inform developers, the Municipality of Skagway, and
Skagway residents to promote educated decisions about actions that can help improve
water quality in Pullen Creek. The Best Management Practices (BMPs) listed in this
manual are such actions that the community of Skagway can take at the residential,
business, and Municipal levels to reduce stormwater pollution. Also included is
information about permits required for construction and industrial activities in regards to
stormwater management.
1.1 What this manual addresses
Stormwater is a source of non-point source pollution, so termed because the pollution
occurs over a large area from many different origins. Vehicles, people, construction,
residential areas, and industry all contribute to pollution in urban streams and rivers.
Pollutants present in stormwater may include sediment, metal, and debris that collect on
streets, sidewalks, and parking lots and are flushed into rivers via stormwater systems
during rain and snowmelt events. Many cities have created stormwater mitigation
programs and manuals to reduce the impact of these pollutants on waterbodies. In some
cities, stormwater mitigation actions are mandatory and require documentation, in other
communities, stormwater manuals give suggestions for concerned citizens to implement
on a voluntary basis.
Skagway, though small, is not removed from the urban problem of stormwater pollution.
Tourism traffic in Skagway during the summer months has the potential to create a large
impact on the environmental health of its local waters. Skagway’s Pullen Creek is
especially vulnerable because of its proximity to urban activities and its small size. Toxic
pollutants accumulate on Skagway’s streets and travel to the water through the city
stormwater system and into the creek. In some cases, this water is filtered through an oilwater separator, in most cases however, stormwater runs directly into Pullen Creek or the
Skagway River.
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This manual will describe ways to reduce stormwater pollutants in the Taiya Inlet
Watershed by decreasing the amount of pollutants on impermeable surfaces and
increasing areas that capture polluted stormwater. These practices outlined in this manual
are presently voluntary; however, future regulations from any level of government could
create mandatory implementation. Creating the means to implement these practices now
can make it easier for people to exercise them regularly in the future.
1.2 What’s at stake?
Stormwater pollution occurs when people actively dump toxic chemicals or other
materials down a stormdrain, or when they passively allow pollutants to be washed into a
stormdrain with runoff or wash water.
Many people are unaware that pollution includes:
 Water from washing vehicles, tools, and equipment
 Spills and leaks from automobiles and storage areas
 Erosion from cleared land
 Animal wastes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 1972 Clean Water Act (CWA) was a
response to a public interest in protection of national lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. The
CWA requires that states develop water quality standards for each type of water use. In
Alaska these uses are established in Title 18, Chapter 70 of the Alaska Administrative
Code and are (1) water supply, (2) water recreation, (3) growth and propagation of fish,
shellfish, other aquatic life, and wildlife. The standards set with each use limit the amount
of pollutant that may be present and/ or discharged into a waterbody. Waterbodies that do
not meet the standards for their designated use are placed on the 303(d) list of impaired
waterbodies. Recovery from that list requires the generation of a Total Maximum Daily
Load document (TMDL), which reports the allowable level of pollutants in a waterbody
for compliance with water quality standards as well as possible mitigation steps to reach
compliance.
Pullen Creek
In 1990, Pullen Creek and the Skagway Harbor were jointly listed on Alaska’s Section
303(d) list by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation because of metals
found in sediments. These sediments contaminants were determined to negatively affect
aquatic life that live in and on the creek bottom. In 2004 and 2005, monitoring showed
that metals existed in sediments in Pullen Creek, which led to the individual listing of the
lower mile of Pullen Creek as an impaired waterbody in 2006. The source of these
pollutants is associated with the historic transport of metal-laced ore to the Port of
Skagway with uncovered rail and truck transport. Dust from uncovered vehicles was
deposited throughout the watershed and are possibly still transported into Pullen Creek
via stormwater, exacerbating an already concerning water quality issue. The 2010 TMDL
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report for the metals cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc identified stormwater as a major
source of pollution to Pullen Creek.
Skagway Harbor
In 1990, when the Skagway Harbor was put on the impaired water bodies list for nonattainment of water quality standards designated for aquatic life, high concentrations of
lead, zinc, cadmium, copper, and mercury were found by ADEC in harbor sediments. In
2008, metals were found to be significantly lower and attention was turned to petroleum
hydrocarbons as the source of aquatic life impairment. Because the probable source of
metal contamination (ore transfer and transport) had ceased, metals in sediments are
expected to decline over time. Petroleum products, specifically polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs), however, persist and are therefore likely to have an historical as
well as a current origin.
A TMDL report was prepared in 2011 for the Skagway Harbor that suggested several
potential sources of petroleum that lead to sediment toxicity: Erosion from construction
projects, historic and recent surface water spills, Pullen Creek, upland nonpoint sources,
NPDES facilities, and harbor and vessel activities including petroleum storage and
transfer facilities. According to ADEC’s Division of Spill Prevention and Response,
Contaminated Sites Program, 7 sites in the City of Skagway are currently contaminated
with petroleum. These are residential, commercial, and industrial sites that still contain
pollutants that, through erosion and runoff could be contributing to harbor toxicity. The
small boat harbor is not included in the area of concern because testing has shown that it
meets water quality standards.
1.3 Federal, State, and Local Regulatory Requirements
Water pollution is not just a social concern - it is also illegal. Local, state, and national
laws regulate discharges and dumping into US waters.
Local regulatory requirements
Skagway’s municipal code prohibit littering within the city limits, allowing water
contaminated with soaps and other pollutants to run down stormdrains, and leaving
vehicle fuel and other oil spills on the streets. These actions are punishable by fines.
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Table 1. Skagway Ordinances Regarding Pollution
Title
8 Health and Safety
Chapter
8.02 Litter Control
10 Vehicles and Traffic
8.04 Nuisances
10.04
Language
8.02.020 Litter in Public
Places
8.02.030 Sidewalks to be
kept free of litter
8.02.050 Vehicle loads
causing litter
8.02.060 Sweeping litter
into gutters
8.02.070 Municipality’s
removal of litter from
private property
8.04.040 Polluting water
10.04.020 Spilling oil on
streets and sidewalks
State and Federal regulatory requirements
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act (or the Clean Water Act (CWA)) of 1972
regulates discharges of pollutants into US waters with a permitting system. Each facility
that discharges water directly to surface water must obtain a permit that limits quantities
and types of substances allowed in the discharge water. Monitoring and reporting
programs are required for the permit holder and are meant to ensure that the discharge
does not harm water quality or human health. Compliance with the CWA is partially
delegated to state programs.
The Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (APDES) handles permits from
various facilities that regularly discharge water as a part of their operations such as
wastewater treatment plants, mines, construction sites, and fish hatcheries.
The APDES Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) APDES permits establish conditions
and limits for the discharge of pollutants from domestic and industrial sources in Alaska.
An MSGP regulates discharges from more than one facility with similar wastewater
characteristics in a defined geographical area (which can be statewide). An operator of a
facility that meets the eligibility requirements of the MSGP will be authorized to
discharge waste after filing a Notice of Intent (NOI) with DEC, so long as all conditions
of the permit are met. Additional information can be located at:
http://dec.alaska.gov/water/wnpspc/stormwater/Index.htm.
The Alaska Construction General Permit regulates construction sites that disturb one
or more acres or have small parcels that are part of a larger construction project. This
permit includes a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), which outline steps
5
that will be taken to reduce erosion and pollution during the construction process. The
DEC website has additional information located at:
http://dec.alaska.gov/water/wnpspc/stormwater/sw_construction.htm
The Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) 404 Nationwide Permit was established
through Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) and regulates discharges of dredged
and fill materials to U.S. waters. In conjunction with an ACOE permit for discharging
dredged and fill materials into U.S. waters, parties must also submit their projects to the
ADEC for review. The project is reviewed for compliance with the CWA, Alaska water
quality regulations, and other relevant state regulations before it is approved or denied.
Stormwater BMPs, like regulatory environmental programs, enhance water quality in
communities, but are often implementable on very small scales. Each BMP is part of a
larger system of BMPs that, altogether, form an effective water pollution prevention tool.
Section 2. Stormwater and Best Management Practices
2.1 What is Stormwater?
Stormwater is rain and snowmelt in the form of run-off that travels over impermeable
surfaces and collects pollutants, transporting them to streams and creeks via stormdrains
(also called catchment basins). In Skagway, these pollutants include metals that have
been carried as dust from the operation of the ore terminal as well as many other urban
pollutants that collect on the streets. Fluids from vehicles, leaks from stored chemicals,
litter, pesticides, fertilizers, and pet waste can all accumulate on impermeable surfaces
where they are picked up and flushed through stormdrains or carried as runoff directly
into streams. Stormwater pollution has two origins, runoff quantity and pollutants.
Runoff Quantity
Stormwater runoff increases in volume with respect to the amount of land converted from
natural conditions to urban surfaces. Development causes an increase in runoff flow rates
and volumes that results in erosion, stream channel widening, and loss of riparian
vegetation. Impermeable surfaces in developed areas provide a medium for pollutants to
collect and act as a conducting agent for runoff to carry them to streams.
Pollutants (King County Manual):
Stormwater pollutants come in many forms with many different sources, but share the
characteristic of impairing biological processes and natural ecosystem functions. Below
is a list of pollutants that affect urban streams and rivers through stormwater systems and
a brief description of their sources and impacts.
Oils, Greases, and Fuels
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Oils, greases, and fuels, both petroleum-based and food-related, are found on roads,
parking lots, driveways, and storage areas for equipment and food wastes. These
pollutants decrease oxygen absorption ability in fish by coating their gills, and clog
drainage infrastructure, increasing the cost of maintenance.
Metals
The most common metals found in stormwater runoff are lead, copper, zinc, and
cadmium. Contamination of the water column and stream sediments can decrease the
health of fish populations and animals that feed on the bottom of streams. Insects that live
in sediments can take up these metals to the detriment of their reproductive cycles.
Automobile fallout, paints, industrial sites, and pesticides are the most common sources
of metals in stormwater.
Sediments (Liu et. al 2008)
Many people may have trouble thinking of sediments as a pollutant to streams and rivers;
however, excess sediments can smother trout and salmon eggs, reduce the availability of
insect habitat, affect spawning areas, and cloud water, which limit both plant growth and
fish health. Healthy, productive streams have rocky bottoms with many spaces available
that trap oxygen for organism use. Aquatic insects make these spaces their homes during
different stages of their lives. Pollutants can bind to sediments, which get washed into
lakes and streams, and settle on the bottom. The sources of sediments include
construction sites, sand and salt application to icy roads, and dirt from vehicles, parking
lots, driveways, and sidewalks. In any case where soil is destabilized, such as the removal
of vegetation, or the digging of foundations during construction projects, there will be
stormwater pollution consequences if protective measures are not taken.
Oxygen-Demanding Substances
Organic matter such as plant debris, yard waste, food waste, and certain chemical wastes
use dissolved oxygen as they decay or chemically react. This leaves less oxygen for other
aquatic plants and animals, resulting in high levels of stress or even death. Salmon and
trout populations are both very sensitive to low levels of dissolved oxygen.
Nutrients
Phosphorus and nitrogen are important for plant processes. An abundance of these
nutrients will cause overproduction of algae and other aquatic plants resulting in surface
scum, and lowered oxygen levels due to plant decay. Some forms of nitrogen
(specifically ammonium) can be toxic to fish in certain environmental conditions. The
most well known sources of nutrients are in fertilizers used in lawn care and agriculture.
Other sources include animal wastes, septic systems, detergents, road deicing salts,
vehicle emissions, eroded soils, and lawn waste such as grass clippings and leaves.
Vehicle washing is another large source of pollution associated with transportation.
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Phosphates in detergents can affect oxygen levels in freshwater. Phosphorus is a limiting
agent in freshwater systems: excess amounts of this element from phosphate soaps or
fertilizers will cause a dramatic increase in the growth of plants and algae. The
breakdown of this plant material by bacteria depletes dissolved oxygen leaving less for
other aquatic organisms. With continued biological productivity, the receiving waters
becoming increasingly eutrophic, a state where algae begins to dominate the waters and
other organisms die off due to low levels of oxygen and reduced water clarity.
Toxic Organic Compounds
Insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and rodenticides all are toxic organic compounds and
are highly destructive, killing fish and poisoning other aquatic plants, insects, and
animals.
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
Pet waste can have very detrimental effects on water quality through several means.
When pet waste is washed into creeks and streams, it adds excess nutrients, leading to
algae and plant overgrowth and eutrophication. The pet waste itself will consume oxygen
in its decomposition process and can release ammonia to the detriment of aquatic life.
Bacterial content is another concern. Several studies have shown that bacteria such as e.
coli, which is associated with gastrointestinal illness, binds to sediments and persists in
streambeds and lake bottoms (Labelle et. al 1980, Schillinger and Gannon 1985). Stirring
up these sediments releases the bacteria into the water, which can lead to ingestion by
humans and animals. While pet owners do not always see the effects of their pet waste, it
is a detrimental addition to a watershed both in terms of stream health and public health.
The University of Wisconsin published a list of diseases and parasites that affect humans
through contact with pet waste. These include Campylobacteriosis, a bacterial infection
causing diarrhea; Cryptosporidium, a parasite causing diarrhea; toxocariasis,
roundworms; and toxoplasmosis, a parasite causing head and muscle aches.
2.2 Existing Stormwater Infrastructure
The knowledge base surrounding Pullen Creek, its contaminants, and its sensitivity to
stormwater influence has been building over several years. In 2004, the Skagway
Traditional Council (STC) established baseline data for metals in and around Pullen
Creek. The final report contains data collected from soil and water samples highlighting
instances where samples exceeded State of Alaska Standards. In 2006, TIWC published a
series of maps showing the location of stormdrains across Skagway, outfalls into Pullen
Creek, and where possible, pipes connecting drains to outfalls (see appendix). The
mapping process included marking areas where drain and outfall function was impaired
due to sediments, leaves, or other debris. The project was an effort to educate residents
about stormwater infrastructure and to connect pollution on the streets to pollution in the
creek as a precursor to the publication of a stormwater best management practices
manual.
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Currently, according to correspondence with Skagway’s Public Works personnel,
stormdrains are maintained by sucking out debris and sediments rather infrequently. Four
drains on the northern part of Broadway, at the time of this writing, have oil-water
separators completely full of sediments. In June 2012, a TIWC staff member and the
director of public works visited a stormdrain and dug out the contents of it (see picture).
It was estimated that the last time it had been cleaned was the summer of 2004. In the fall
of 2011, a trial stormdrain insert was placed in a drain. Over the winter and spring, it
collected this much sediment (still need to find out), and still showed signs of proper
functioning.
The February 2006 Pullen Creek Action Plan, published by TIWC stressed the
importance of implementing systems of best management practices to reduce the impact
of urban and shipping activities on Pullen Creek.
2.3 What are Best Management Practices?
Best Management Practices (BMPs) are actions implemented in residential, industrial,
commercial, and municipal areas that reduce pollution to rivers, streams, and lakes by
capturing stormwater runoff and limiting pollutants that collect on impermeable surfaces.
Some BMPs are source controls, meaning, they prevent contaminants from coming into
contact with stormwater. An example of this is repairing vehicle components to prevent
fuel and oil leaks or properly disposal of yard waste. Other BMPs are treatments that
remove pollutants from stormwater. An example of this is a riparian buffer, which slows
the flow of stormwater near the riparian edge of a stream or creek. A lower flow velocity
allows for pollutants to adsorb into soils and plants. Plants roots will take up soluble
pollutants (Liu et al. 2008).
These practices mitigate the stormwater issues that arise with development of natural
areas. A different approach is to design urban infrastructure with stormwater retention in
mind. This is known as “low impact development” (LID). Throughout the United States,
cities have employed LID to utilize stormwater drainage for the growth of functional
landscape features. Choice of materials in development projects can improve infiltration
of water rather than contribute to runoff, in effect managing stormwater and pollutants at
its source and reducing the impact of development on streams, rivers, lakes, coastal
waters, and groundwater (EPA 2007). Some aspects of LID are incorporated into
stormwater best management practices.
This manual is broken into sections regarding residential, municipal, and industrial
BMPs. To make best use of it, each user should consult the section that applies to them
and consider implementing the steps described if they recognize that stormwater
pollution mitigation would be beneficial.
Section 3. Residential
9
Residential actions are often small, conscious decisions that add up to positive changes in
environmental health. Many residents in Skagway want Pullen Creek to continue
functioning and thriving by supporting Salmon and maintaining its aesthetic qualities.
These simple actions can promote a healthy Pullen Creek.
3.1 Vehicles
Oils and greases from residential vehicles tend to accumulate on driveways and streets
where they can be washed into stormdrains.

Check for and fix vehicle leaks regularly

Use drip pans to collect liquids during maintenance

Dispose of liquids in the proper place: in Skagway, the small boat harbor collects
oil, antifreeze, and used car batteries and disposes of these substances without
damaging ground or surface water

Be prepared to clean up after leaks when they do occur. In many cases, cat litter
will soak up liquids and can be disposed of in the garbage
Vehicle washing on impermeable surfaces increases runoff on the streets, picking
pollutants up off roads and transporting them to stormdrains. Wash water contains soaps,
oils, greases, and emission fallout particles.

Wash cars over permeable surfaces such as lawns or aerated soils

Use soaps that do not contain phosphorus: this nutrient will promote overgrowth
of algae in aquatic ecosystems.

Avoid washing underneath the car over impermeable surface areas. This is the site
of oil, grease, and fuel buildups
3.2 Disposal of Toxic Substances

Never dump products labeled poisonous, corrosive, caustic, flammable,
inflammable, volatile, explosive danger, warning, caution, or dangerous
outdoors, into stormwater drains, sinks, toilets or drains. Oils, antifreeze, and
used car batteries can be taken to the small boat harbor. Other hazardous
materials are collected from Skagway on a designated day.
3.3 Lawn care and Landscaping
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Pullen Creek runs through many parcels of private property. Proper lawn care can
contribute to stormwater management by providing an area of infiltration for water
running off sidewalks and roofs. Lawn care also has the potential to heighten pollution
for stormwater runoff through the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides. Pesticides contain
toxic chemicals, some of which are harmful to aquatic organisms at even low levels.
Fertilizers and organic materials like grass clippings and leaves contain nutrients that
promote algae overgrowth. According to the EPA, residential lawns produce significant
amounts of runoff, and are therefore poor stormwater management tools, especially when
they contain pesticides and fertilizers. This runoff can be contained in the lawn area with
some structural practices.

Avoid the use of pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, and rodenticides. If used,
follow the directions carefully and do not over apply.

Aerate compacted soils in areas of high runoff to promote water infiltration.
Gardens have higher rates of infiltration because soils have larger pore spaces and
root systems are more extensive compared to those of grass. Adding gardens to
lawns also contribute to Skagway’s reputation as the Garden City of Alaska.

Properly dispose of yard wastes: the area of Seven Pastures has a site for leaves,
branches, and grass clippings.
Riparian buffers are a structural BMP that provides a protective barrier to the creek. A
riparian buffer is an area of native vegetation between a stream, creek or other waterbody
and any type of development. These vegetative structures are the most important element
of a stream ecosystem. Not only do they act as a filter for pollutants by allowing
infiltration of water, they also create habitat for insects and wildlife. Stormwater that runs
through buffer zones is slowed down by the increase in surface roughness (Liu et. al
2008). Contaminants are absorbed by the soil, which has high permeability due to root
growth. Plants then take up nutrients and other pollutants before they can seep into
groundwater or surface water. A 10 to 20 foot buffer of native grasses and trees can
significantly decrease the amount of pollutants entering a stream or creek, adds to the
aesthetics of the environment, and provides food and building materials for aquatic
insects and animals (Zhang et al. 2009).
Other structural BMPs that residents can employ on their own properties include rain
barrels and rain gardens. Rain barrels collect water that runs off roofs and stores it for
later use. This water can be used for washing or watering plants, decreasing the amount
of city water used for these activities. Rain gardens are constructed basins that hold
permeable soils as well as plants. These are best placed adjacent to areas of impermeable
surface, where runoff can be directed into the gardens before contributing to the city’s
stormwater volume.

On properties that contain portions of Pullen Creek, maintain or establish a
riparian buffer of 10 to 20 feet that is made up of native plants, trees, and grasses.
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This reduces property maintenance area and also improves the condition of the
stream on location as well as downstream

Install a rain barrel in an area that collects roof runoff

Create a rain garden in areas of high runoff that will add to property aesthetically
while capturing stormwater and pollutants
3.4 Pet Wastes

To prevent fecal coliform bacteria from entering the watershed and to help reduce
the effects of nutrient overload, residents need only pick up after their pets

Carry a bag on walks and adventures with your pet, dispose of waste in trash
receptacles.

Keep pet waste in residential yards under control and be especially mindful about
areas around stormdrains and gutters.
Section 4. Municipal
4.1 Roads
In Skagway, a large source of sediments to the creek is sand and salt added to icy winter
streets. In the spring, during melting days, the sediment is mobilized and the finest
sediments are transported to stormdrains, affecting fish and insect habitat.

Sweep up sand left after melts quickly and avoid washing debris into stormdrains.

Installing oil water separators, sediment traps or inserts in stormdrains to capture
pollutants. Regularly maintain them
Snow removal is another potential stormwater issue. Accumulated snow can contain
pollutants such as salt, sand, gravel, oil grease, antifreeze, heavy metals, and trace
elements from engine emissions. A DEC report found that in study areas in Juneau and
Anchorage, chromium, lead, and mercury were found at levels above established limits
while litter and debris were most concerning to the public. The presence of pollutants
suggest that dumping snow in marine environments, as some communities do because of
lack of space, would create a water quality issue. In Skagway, municipal snow removal
consists of pushing snow to the side of the road on all streets, with Broadway as the
exception. From 1st to 7th along Broadway, snow is picked up and transported to the
Southeast corner of the fenced in area by the small boat harbor. Whether this poses a
stormwater problem is conditional on the proximity to Pullen Creek and the drainage area
around the pile of snow. As it melts, collected pollutants could be carried into the creek
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directly or via stormwater infrastructure. There is no dumping of snow into aquatic
environments, fresh or marine, in Skagway, but the placement of snow could greatly
affect Pullen Creek when it melts and carries pollutants.

Evaluate the placement of snow removed from streets and where the runoff will
go. Treatment BMPs such as sediment traps or infiltration basins (discussed in
4.2) may be installed to prevent pollutants from entering stormwater
infrastructure.

If possible, place removed snow in areas where melt will not affect streams or
creeks.

Dirt roads that abut the creek and are not maintained often have potholes that
suggest finer sediments have traveled off the road. These holes fill with water and
vehicles traveling through them cause water to wash over the banks carrying
sediments.

Create barriers between dirt roads and the creek with riparian buffers. Maintain
these roads by filling in potholes to stop the process of road movement into the
stream.
4.2 Outfalls
Outfall site design can impact stream habitat negatively if the pipe diameter is too small,
causing erosion at the discharge site. With proper construction, discharge sites can be
engineered to dissipate energy and improve fish habitat.

Build new outfall structures or modify existing ones to minimize impacts to
aquatic organisms and their habitats by maintaining a maximum flow velocity of
less than 10 feet per second.

Pair each outfall with a rock splash pad, unless flow velocity is greater than 10
feet per second, in which case, more elaborate engineered structures should be
explored such as a flow dispersal trench, a tightline system, or a gabion outfall.
Tightline System
A pipe that conveys flows down a steep slope with proper energy dissipation at the
discharge site.
Flow Dispersal Trench
A trench dug specifically for receiving concentrated flows.
Gabion Outfall
Constructed area where water can pool up, reducing erosion that occurs due to flows.
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
Outfalls can also be paired with a widened stream at the discharge site, resulting
in an alcove for fish to use as shelter during high flow velocities.
4.3 Vegetation
On municipal lands that contain portions of Pullen Creek, riparian buffers can be
established. Some areas along Pullen Creek are very steep and may benefit from
stabilization measures using materials such as rocks or netting. Several riparian
enhancement projects along Pullen Creek have been implemented over the years and
have transformed unstable stream banks into vegetated areas with improved structural
and habitat characteristics. TIWC, USFWS, SAGA1 and WP&YR have partnered in these
projects to improve streamside areas to the benefit of the community, visitors, and stream
ecosystem.

Set aside a 10 to 20 foot strip of vegetation to protect streams from pollutants,
erosion, and other sediments contributed by stormwater run-off.

Stabilize banks with rocks, netting, or other materials to prevent erosion in steep
areas.
A biofiltration swale is another vegetated stormwater mitigation strategy. These are
concave channels of vegetation that are either wet or dry and slow water that is flowing
off impermeable surfaces or from stormdrain outfalls. The slowed water velocity allows
for sediments and pollutants to fall out before the water is conveyed to rivers or streams.
Dry swales are planted with grasses and are appropriate along streets, parking lots, and
next to buildings. Wet swales are planted with wetland vegetation and are found in areas
that tend to collect water or in constructed wetlands. Swales are constructed with
permeable but not highly erosive soils such as sandy loam, loamy sand, or loam soils.
The plants must withstand high velocity flows of water and be established in soils well
before high velocity flows are expected. Suggested setbacks for swales are two feet from
property lines, and 10 feet from building foundations.

Create a depressed area with grasses and soil appropriate for characteristics of site
flow and sediment quantities to intercept stormwater flows. Monitor and maintain
them as needed.
An infiltration basin, like a swale, is a depressed area that collects stormwater off an
impermeable surface, often through a pipe or other conveyance element. In contrast to a
swale, an infiltration basin will store the stormwater until it seeps through the soil and
into groundwater. Some basins have pipes underneath that convey the water away from
the area and some rely on the natural permeation characteristics of the site. This type of
1
A service program in the realm of AmeriCorps
14
mitigation strategy is appropriate for small drainage areas with low levels of
sedimentation expected. Sediments will clog the system and result in failure.

Construct an infiltration basin to convey surface runoff to groundwater while
providing storage and pollution filtration. Plants will take up pollutants while
water seeps through layers of soil.
4.3 Litter
Litter is harmful to water quality and can disturb insect and fish habitat. It detracts from
the natural beauty of the area and lets off toxins as it decomposes.

Increase the number and visibility of garbage cans in high pedestrian areas
around Pullen Creek.

Develop signs that remind visitors and residents to be responsible with their
garbage. Use several languages to effectively communicate with visitors from
around the world.
Section 5. Commercial
5.1 Vehicles
Tourism is Skagway’s greatest source of revenue, and also its greatest source of
pollution. On rainy days it is especially apparent how much pollution tourism vehicles
add to the streets, which are streaked with fuel oil and contain puddles from leaks.

Regularly perform checks and maintenance to prevent leaks and spills. Hold
vehicle drivers responsible for these tasks and for the consequences of failing to
perform them (i.e. cleaning up after spills).

Make clean up materials available and easy to find. Create a spill clean-up plan
and train vehicle drivers to follow it.

Require responsible fueling. Many lines of fuel oil on roads may be from
overfilling tanks.
5.2 Vehicle Washing
Washing commercial vehicles on impermeable surfaces creates a large influx of
stormwater and pollutants associated with vehicles in the stormwater system.

Set aside a commercial vehicle-washing area containing the proper filtration
systems to take out pollutants
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
Use soaps that are phosphorus free.
5.3 Construction
In many communities, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) are a required
element of a construction process. SWPPP are site-specific documents outlining steps for
reducing stormwater pollution caused by construction activities that clear land of
vegetation. Some general guiding principles have been identified as effective BMPs to
incorporate into these plans for reducing sediments to waterbodies. These are listed
below.

Minimize Clearing and Grading. Sites can be analyzed for areas where clearing
and grading can be avoided. Aquatic areas are especially dependent on stream
buffers, forest conservation areas, wetlands, springs, and seeps, highly erodible
soils, steep slopes, and stormwater infiltration areas. Disturbing these areas
should be avoided, if possible, or restricted to only necessary activities.

Protect Waterways. When waterways are a part of a construction site, any land
clearing along the riparian areas should be avoided. To protect the stream from
excess sediment loading, a silt fence or earthen dike can be installed as a buffer.

Stabilize Drainage Ways. A map of the existing future drainage patterns can
inform the construction team about which way sediments will be heading. These
drainage ways can be protected from erosion and sediment overload with netting,
erosion control blankets, grass plantings, dikes, or silt fence.

Implement Phase Construction. Grading areas only when needed rather than
grading the entire site will reduce the time that soils are at risk of erosion. This
may require more planning, but will result in stabilized soils throughout the
construction process.

Stabilize Loose Soils Quickly. Soil is stabilized by setting a goal of establishing a
grass or mulch cover within two weeks of soil exposure. This practice can reduce
sediment loads in local streams by a factor of six. If vegetation is not established,
then mulch can serve as a stabilizing agent.

Protect Steep Slopes. Erosion risk is highest along steep slopes. The best practice
is to avoid clearing any slopes altogether and to divert runoff that would
otherwise travel down the slope. If water cannot be diverted, then a silt fence to
catch eroding sediments at the foot of the slope may prevent them from running
into waterbodies. Slopes can be stabilized with erosion control blankets and
mulch binders.
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
Establish Perimeter Controls. Perimeter controls such as silt fences or earth dikes
help to keep sediments from the construction site within a contained area. These
measures can stop the flow of runoff or even filter sediments out of runoff.

Construct Advanced Settling Devices. Should storms occur and lead to fine
sediment mobilization, stormwater drainage should lead to a basin where
sediments can fall out. These basins are designed according to site conditions.

Certify Contractors To Implement SWPPP. The most carefully thought out plan
will not work if it is not implemented correctly. Therefore, the responsibility
needs to be delegated to a contractor who is trained in installing and maintaining
SWPPP measures that will lead to proper stormwater management.

Adjust Plan for Field Conditions. Plans will be modified as needed according to
the conditions of the construction site. Inspection of the construction site and the
plan for mitigating impact should help revisions that will lead to appropriate
modifications in instillation and implementation.

Assess Stormwater Practices after Storms. Storms events can wash away or
damage stormwater mitigation elements. Careful inspection of practices will
allow contractors to repair and reinforce constructed elements to continue
effective management of the Stormwater plan
Section 6. Building, Repair, and Maintenance of Boats and Ships
Skagway’s small boat harbor has many practices in place already that help reduce
pollution to local waters. Some of these include:



Fuel and oil spill clean up plans: The harbormaster attends annual SEAPRO
(Southeast Alaska Petroleum Resource Organization) training to prepare for
possible oil spill response.
Clean up materials are readily available at the fueling station
Materials for larger spills are accessible for harbor staff and other SEAPRO
responders in the City of Skagway
The voluntary, non-regulatory Clean Harbors Program was created by the Cook
Inletkeeper, a non-profit community-based organization working to protect Alaska’s
Cook Inlet. This program encourages harbors to reduce wastes and meet regulatory
environmental requirements, which will reduce the risk of future fines. The process is
voluntary and requires adherence to a list of best management practices. Certified Clean
Harbors promote Alaskan fisheries, culture, and tourism by keeping hydrocarbons and
other toxins out of watersheds. Even without Clean Harbor certification, harbors can
implement steps that result in large improvements to marine environmental health. Boat
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repair, maintenance, and fueling are all activities that can be carefully managed to
prevent water quality deterioration.





Major repairs and cleaning should be completed in the shipyard rather than in the
water
Refuse and waste materials from minor repairs and cleaning should be collected
and disposed of onshore. Title XII of Skagway Municipal Code defines refuse of
all kinds, including paint, oil, and dock sweepings, as nuisances and therefore
unlawful (12.08.090 D).
Topping off fuel tanks should be avoided as it leads to spills. Absorbent pads
should be on hand in case spills do occur
Engines and other mechanics should be maintained to prevent leaks into the bilge
Bilge water should be carefully disposed of. Any oil should be soaked up with
pads or pillows that are kept on board all vessels. Mixing soaps with oily bilge
water is more toxic than oil alone.2
For more information on the Alaska Clean Harbors program, visit
http://alaskacleanharbors.org/ or contact Rachel Lord at 907.235.4068 ext. 29.
Section 7. Community Involvement
Community involvement in watershed conservation fosters a connection to and
appreciation for local rivers, lakes, and streams. This will continually promote healthy
watersheds by creating a lasting social conscientiousness.
In some communities, volunteer water monitoring programs have been constructed to
connect residents with their water resources. These programs are all set up differently:
they can be connected to local, state, interstate, or federal agencies and are funded
through grants, endowments, fundraisers, and partnerships with organizations and
businesses. Many of them work with local agencies that provide information, training,
and technical assistance. Community involvement is one of the most effective means to
promote stewardship of resources and allows a hands-on educational experience for the
people who influence the health of the resource the most. Residential actions, large or
small, add up to important changes in the quality of the resource, either for the better or
for the worse. Community monitoring programs also foster connections between
concerned citizens and agency staff that can be valuable for working for the present and
future health of community resources.
A related, and wider-sweeping effort is the adopt-a-stream program. These are often
sponsored and supported by municipalities. The groups that have adopted the stream will
engage in activities that improve the stream by collecting information on the stream and
working on projects that reduce wastes in the present and the future. Some projects that
have benefit some streams have included streambank enhancement, stream clean-ups,
insect monitoring, and implementing water monitoring programs.
2
http://inletkeeper.org/clean-water/clean-boating/clean-boaters
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