New federal stormwater management regulations require Ephrata Township and others in “urbanized areas” across Pennsylvania to apply for a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to discharge stormwater from our Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4).  Under the new regulations, Ephrata Township will now manage the quality as well as the quantity of storm water runoff generated within the Township.  The purpose of the new regulation is to reduce waterway pollution from contaminants carried by stormwater runoff.  The following information will explain the benefits of the program as well as identify what you should do to help control pollution created by stormwater.