Use the BMP Database Protocols to Track BMP performance
A primary objective of the Stormwater BMP Database project has been to standardize reporting protocols for BMP performance studies to enable consistent analysis of the factors leading to BMP performance. After significant input from a team of international experts, a set of standardized reporting protocols was developed and released as part of a BMP data entry software package on CD in 1999. In 2006, the data entry software was replaced by more flexible data entry spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel. The data entry spreadsheets and user’s guide can be downloaded to track key parameters needed to evaluate BMP performance. These spreadsheets also identify required data necessary for the study to be included in the International Stormwater BMP Database.
Final Stormwater BMP Database Data Entry Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel, 2016)
Final Stormwater BMP Database Data Entry User’s Guide (PDF, 2016)
For more information on data entry and submittal procedures, contact Jane Clary
For more detailed information on setting up BMP monitoring, see Monitoring Guidance.
Requirements for Study Submittal
In order for a BMP monitoring study to be considered for inclusion in the BMP Database, several criteria must be met, including: 1. The study must be for a post-construction, permanent BMP conducted in the field. Laboratory studies are not accepted. 2. Required fields in data entry spreadsheets must be provided, or explained if not applicable to the specific study. As a general rule, event mean concentrations (EMCs) are required for most studies, unless special considerations are identified (e.g., bacterial data may be taken as grab samples). 3. Studies conducted by vendors or manufacturers of proprietary devices must meet certain requirements to ensure study results are independent and unbiased. These requirements are outlined in Proprietary Device Policy.
Adoption of Database by Public Agencies
During the last several years, public agencies including state departments of environmental protection, flood control districts and departments of transportation have adopted the database format to track their ongoing studies. The Project Team is available to answer questions and provide assistance in facilitating this process. Use of the database format is free and publicly available, provided that Terms of Use are followed. Please contact us if you would like to discuss adoption of the database for your local government or agency.