Record Rainfall Data
In Texas, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) mandates that industrial operators at permitted facilities maintain accurate records of rainfall events, including the date and total rainfall amount. These records must be retained on-site for a minimum of five years from the start of permitted operations and be readily available for review during TCEQ site inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Rainfall data can be recorded manually on paper or digitally in a spreadsheet for each day of the month. While recording the data is straightforward, selecting the appropriate technology to measure rainfall amounts is critical. Westward is a full-service environmental, geosciences, and engineering consulting firm equipped to assist in developing, implementing, and maintaining a tailored rainfall recording plan to meet your operational needs. Our expertise ensures compliance with TCEQ regulations while accommodating the unique requirements of your operations.
Compliance Options for Rainfall Monitoring
Option 1: Low-Cost, Low-Maintenance Manual Solution
A cost-effective and low-maintenance rainfall monitoring plan can be created utilizing the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). This approach involves the installation and use of a simple, standardized rain gauge, enabling accurate manual rainfall measurements suitable for smaller operations or facilities with limited resources.
Option 2: Automated Weather Instrumentation
For companies requiring a more automated solution, Westward can provide a detailed plan for advanced weather instrumentation, such as a Campbell Scientific automated weather station (image above), capable of digitally recording multiple meteorological parameters, including rainfall amounts. These systems are research-grade, offering high accuracy, durability, and reliability for continuous monitoring in diverse environmental conditions. They are customizable to measure parameters such as wind speed, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure, in addition to rainfall, making them suitable for complex operations across multiple sites. This option requires access to power and internet connectivity and involves higher initial costs. Our team will work closely with you to evaluate your operational needs and budget, recommending an automated system that aligns with your compliance and operational strategies.
Option 3: Outsourced Rainfall Data Services
For operators seeking a solution that eliminates the need for on-site equipment, Westward offers a comprehensive rainfall data service. Our on-staff, certified consulting meteorologist (CCM) leverages advanced data resources and analytical software to perform quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures, delivering a monthly electronic report of daily rainfall amounts for each of your sites throughout the year. This service covers the entire five-year record-keeping period required by TCEQ. Additionally, we offer in-house training to enable your team to implement the same process independently.
Partnering for Compliance Success
Westward is committed to supporting your facility’s compliance with TCEQ stormwater regulations. Our tailored solutions are designed to streamline record-keeping processes, minimize compliance risks, and align with your operational goals.