Helping schools meet state stormwater regulations

Vermont DEC’s Green Schools Initiative

To help protect Vermont’s surface waters, the state passed the Vermont Clean Water Act, which targets phosphorus pollution that contributes to harmful algal blooms. A key provision, the 3-Acre Permit, requires properties with three or more acres of impervious surfaces — like rooftops and parking lots — to install stormwater systems that reduce runoff into the Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog watersheds. Property owners must first obtain General Permit 3-9050 before making upgrades.

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To support public schools in meeting these requirements, the Department of Environmental Conservation launched the Green Schools Initiative and selected Greenprint to develop and administer the program. The first phase focused on project design and permitting, while the second is now supporting construction.

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Greenprint guided more than 60 public schools through the permit process, engaging districts and hosting a webinar to share program details. We hired local engineering firms for site evaluations and designs to comply with permit requirements. Notably, 20% of funds went to women-owned businesses, exceeding the state's 5% goal. As the primary liaison between schools and contractors, Greenprint ensures smooth communication and coordination. We work closely with superintendents, principals and facilities managers to keep stakeholders informed. Now in the construction phase, we are bringing each school's stormwater project to life.

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