What should inspectors consider when evaluating BMP effectiveness?

When evaluating the effectiveness of Best Management Practices (BMPs), it is crucial to consider the weather conditions leading up to the inspection. Weather significantly influences BMP performance because it directly affects factors such as soil moisture, erosion potential, and sediment transport. For instance, recent heavy rainfall can cause BMPs to be overwhelmed or less effective due to increased runoff and sediment load, while dry conditions may present different challenges, such as dust control.

Understanding the weather conditions helps inspectors assess whether the observed performance of the BMPs is typical or influenced by unusual weather events, providing context needed for an accurate evaluation. Additionally, it allows inspectors to identify potential improvements or adjustments needed based on environmental conditions. This understanding is critical for ensuring that BMPs function as intended during varying weather patterns, so evaluating their effectiveness cannot be done in isolation without considering the weather impacts.