PCHB157005078

PCHBPollution Control Hearings Board of the State of Washington

The Port of Seattle's (Port) NPDES permit and 401 Certification require it to collect, detain, treat, and slowly release stormwater generated at the Master Plan Update (MPU) project area to mitigate impacts that would otherwise occur to area streams, including impacts to stream flows and water quality. Appellant Airport Communities Coalition (ACC) argues that the Port must obtain a water right before it can comply with these conditions. Specifically, ACC argues that the Port must obtain a water right because the required stormwater management is not "typical." ACC's Motion for Partial Summary Judgment (ACC Brief) at 11. ACC's position is unsupported by stormwater regulations, the water code or other relevant law. While stormwater discharges have been comprehensively regulated in this state since at least 1987, a water right has never been required to manage stormwater in Washington or anywhere else. Applicable law and sound environmental policy demand that ACC's position be rejected, and that summary judgment be granted in favor of the Port on this issue. MARTEN BROWN INC. PORT OF SEATTLE'S MEMO. IN OFF. TO ACC'S MOTN FOR S/J RE 421s. CAOlTOLWAY,StaTE303 THE ABSENCE OF A WATER RIGHT FOR THIRD RUNWAY § 401 CERT. OLVMrU,, WASHINGTON 98501 PAGE I (36o)786-5o57 AR 005078 I. FACTUAL BACKGROUND A. Effects of Development on Stormwater. The natural hydrologic cycle is disturbed when undeveloped land is replaced with impervious surfaces. Declaration of Paul Fendt (Fendt Dec.), ¶5 (Attachment 1). When rain falls on these surfaces, it runs off the ground rather than seeping into…
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