(1) As funding to do so becomes available, the department shall
create a storm water technical resource center in partnership
with a university, nonprofit organization, or other public or
private entity to provide tools for storm water management. The
center shall use its authority to support the duties listed in
this subsection through research, development, technology
demonstration, technology transfer, education, outreach,
recognition, and training programs. The center may:
(a) Review and evaluate emerging storm water technologies;
(b) Research and develop innovative and cost-effective
technical solutions to remove pollutants from runoff and to
reduce or eliminate storm water discharges;
(c) Conduct pilot projects to test technical solutions;
(d) Serve as a clearinghouse and outreach center for
information on storm water technology;
(e) Assist in the development of storm water control methods
to better protect water quality, including source control,
product substitution, pollution prevention, and storm water
treatment;
(f) Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies and
private organizations in administering programs related to storm
water control measures; and
(g) Collaborate with existing storm water outreach programs.
(2) The department shall consult with an advisory committee
in the development of the storm water technical resource center.
The advisory committee must include representatives from relevant
state agencies, local governments, the business community, the
environmental community, tribes, and the building and development
industry.
(3) The department, in consultation with the storm water
technical resource center advisory committee, shall identify a
funding strategy for funding the storm water technical resource
center.
(4) The department shall encourage all interested parties to
help and support the technical resource center with in-kind
services.
(5) The department shall prepare and submit a biennial
progress report to the legislature.
[2009 c 449 § 2.]