What are the two main categories of BMPs?

The identification of the two main categories of Best Management Practices (BMPs) as structural and non-structural is based on the functional roles these practices serve in managing stormwater.

Structural BMPs are engineered systems designed to manage the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff. They include physical structures like retention ponds, infiltration basins, and swales, which are constructed to capture and treat stormwater effectively. These systems often involve alterations to the landscape and are typically permanent installations.

Non-structural BMPs, on the other hand, focus on practices that do not involve significant physical structures but rather aim to promote behavioral changes or land use management. These can include practices such as education and outreach programs, policies for reducing impervious surfaces, and implementing soil amendments or conservation landscaping. Non-structural BMPs often emphasize long-term sustainability and community involvement in stormwater management.

Understanding this classification helps in determining how to approach stormwater issues effectively, making it crucial for professionals engaged in stormwater management and inspection.