Virginia DEQ Seeks Comments on Draft Updates to VRRM Calculations

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has proposed updates to the Virginia Runoff Reduction Method (VRRM) calculations and standards and is seeking public comments. The VRRM is a tool and methodology that allows persons engaged in land-disturbing activity to demonstrate their compliance with water quality requirements. It calculates compliance with the total phosphorous load of new development projects, which is included in the Virginia Stormwater Management Program (VSMP) Regulation.

Proposed updates include expanded land covers, alignment with the Chesapeake Assessment Scenario Tool, incorporation of changes to the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Model regarding urban phosphorus fertilizer applications, new post-development Best Management Practices, and total phosphorus load for new development updated to 0.26lbs per acre per year. Periodic modifications to VRRM calculations and standards are required by the Virginia Stormwater Management Act and are intended to reflect current engineering methods.

Anyone wishing to submit comments on the proposed updates to the VRRM or total phosphorus load may do so by email to DEQ at SWMguidance@deq.virginia.gov. All comments must be received by August 21, 2023 and include your name, organization represented (if any), mailing address, and/or email address.

To learn more about the VRRM or GKY’s technical, policy, and environmental solutions, contact us today.