Have you ever noticed and wondered why there are vegetated depression areas located within Lots R-12 and I-34? These are just two of the 11 stormwater management practices (SMPs) that have been constructed throughout the campus over the last 17 years. These systems treat campus stormwater run-off before it flows to Scajaquada Creek.
Scajaquada Creek has been designated as an "impaired" waterway by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) because of excessive concentrations of Pollutants of Concern (POCs), including "phosphorus," "pathogens," and "floatables." Fertilizers and fallen leaves can contribute to excessive levels of phosphorus. Sanitary sewer overflow and animal waste are typical sources for excessive levels of pathogens. Trash, debris, and spills or leaks of petroleum, if not cleaned up, can contribute to excessive levels of floatables.
The 11 SMPs on campus capture some of the campus storm run-off and remove the POCs and other contaminants using filtration or other treatment technologies before the stormwater is conveyed through the campus separate storm sewer system to Scajaquada Creek. Several of the SMPs are hidden from view in underground concrete chambers and are aptly called "gray" stormwater infrastructure. The above-ground SMPs on campus, including the bioretention areas located within Lots R-12 and I-34 and the rain gardens located south of Science and Mathematics Complex and on the Technology Building rooftop, are often called "green" stormwater infrastructures, as these types of systems mimic wetland or other natural filtration processes.
Installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of the 11 SMPs on campus is mandated by the NYS DEC and the Federal Clean Water Act. The NYS DEC also requires governmental entities hosting these systems, including SUNY Buffalo State University, to inform employees and the public about the POCs and the function of the SMPs. To learn more about the DEC-issued "MS4" permit and campus stormwater management, please visit the EH&S MS4 web page.
