Environmental Projects

Overview of what’s in the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) for these facilities

The SWPPPs for the Port of Port Angeles outline how the Port’s industrial facilities—including the Marine Terminal 3, Log Yard, Fairchild International Airport, and Airport Log Yard—manage stormwater to protect water quality. Both plans identify site activities and materials that may contribute pollutants, such as log handling, fueling, equipment maintenance, and aircraft operations, and require preventive practices to minimize risks. Each SWPPP details Best Management Practices (BMPs) for good housekeeping, preventive maintenance, spill prevention and cleanup, training, and inspections. Employees, contractors, and vendors play a critical role by following daily BMPs, reporting spills or deficiencies, and supporting corrective actions. Together, these SWPPPs ensure compliance with the stormwater Permit and protect Port Angeles Harbor and the surrounding waters from industrial stormwater pollution. The Port’s Environmental Manager, Jesse Waknitz (jessew@portofpa.com or 360.417.3452), is responsible for the SWPPP. A copy of the plan may be requested by contacting him via email.

How YOU make a difference

Clean water is a resource we all share and have a collective duty to protect. Pollutants that enter the stormwater system flow into local waterways—such as Port Angeles Harbor—where they can harm aquatic life and human health. Employees, vendors, and contractors play a vital role in the Port’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) by helping prevent contamination of stormwater and ensuring Best Management Practices (BMPs) are properly maintained and in place. Being aware of how your actions impact stormwater is the first step in preventing pollution. Rainwater picks up pollutants as it runs off surfaces—sometimes obvious, like an oil spill, and sometimes harder to see, like dust from tires or paint flecks. Even “natural” materials, such as grass clippings or pet waste, can be harmful once they enter waterways. By following good housekeeping practices, using spill kits, maintaining equipment, and promptly reporting issues, you directly support stormwater protection and compliance with the Industrial Stormwater General Permit (ISGP). Thank you for taking the time to learn about the Port’s SWPPP and the role you play in safeguarding water quality—remember: Only Rain Down the Drain!

Ten Best Practices While Working on the Ports Industrial Property at the Airport or down on the Waterfront

• Keep all equipment and vehicles in good working order and well-maintained.
• Use drip pans or other containment when transferring fluids and fuels. Fueling must be conducted at least 25’ from any catch basin.
• Sweep up work areas rather than using water.
• Store materials inside or under cover, especially metal, chemicals, and tires.
• Store all drums (fuel, chemicals & etc.) in secondary containment and covered.
• Use proper construction management techniques to prevent erosion and sediment in stormwater. Protect nearby drains and ditches when doing work.  Make sure the site is secure before leaving for lunch and at the end of the day.
• Tools, vehicles, and equipment can NOT be washed here. Use a commercial car wash for vehicles and large equipment.  Use construction management BMPs to contain and properly dispose of concrete wash-out.
• Dispose of all trash properly; keep dumpster lids closed.
• All spills must be immediately reported to the Port Environmental Manager: 360.417.3452. IF A SPILL IS UNCONTROLLED OR POSES AN IMMEDIATE RISK TO HUMAN OR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH, ALWAYS CALL 911 FIRST. After business hours/weekends/holidays, please call Port Security at 360.457.1909
• We are here to help! If you need more information on stormwater pollution and spill prevention, please call or email the Port Environmental Manager at jessew@portofpa.com or 360.417.3452

Your completion of the form below signifies your acknowledgement of your role and responsibility in preventing stormwater pollution.