Best Management Practices

States are required by the federal Clean Water Act to identify Best Management Practices (BMPs) to control surface runoff and other forms of nonpoint pollution. For forestry activities in North Carolina, the term BMPs refers to effective, economical and practical treatments, methods or practices that can be implemented to help prevent pollution from getting into our water and thereby protect water quality. The detailed definition of BMPs can be found within the FPG rules citation and the North Carolina Forestry BMP Manual.

ATFS Standard 4, Indicator 4.1.1
Landowner shall implement specific state forestry BMPs that are applicable to the property.

Best Management Practices Manual (N.C. Forest Service)
The Best Management Practices (BMP) Manual details specific tools and methods which can be used during forestry operations to reach compliance with the N.C. Forest Practices Guidelines (FPG) Related to Water Quality.

BMP Quick Reference Field Manual (N.C. Forest Service)
This pocket-sized guide illustrates proper implementation of BMPs and other erosion control practices that can be used to keep streams and creeks free from sediment and other nonpoint source pollution during timber harvesting or other forestry activities.