VA DEQ SWM Inspector Exam
Test Comprehensive
Questions (Frequently Tested)
with Verified Answers
What element is targeted by water quality criteria? - Answer: Phosphorous, it indicates pollution by
bonding with other pollutants.
At what % impervious cover are streams substantially affected? - Answer: 25%
what is the site-based load limit for water quality? - Answer: 0.41 lbs/acre/yr total phosphorous
Virginia Runoff Reduction Method- method of load calculations - Answer: load calculations based on
land cover type and soil type.
what must happen to potentially harmful sheet flow runoff? - Answer: Must be diverted to stormwater
conveyance system.
SWM ponds must be able to convey water safely up to what level storm event? - Answer: must be able
to safely convey up to a 100 yr storm.
Define LDA - Answer: Land disturbing activity; any man-made change to the land surface that potentially
changes its runoff characteristics; includes clearing, grading, and excavation.
What size LDA must comply with stormwater management regulation? in CPBA areas? - Answer:
anything of 1 acre or more, or 2500 ft^2 in CPBA areas; may be more stringent locally.
what are some activities exempt from SWM regulations? - Answer: mining, agriculture, sewer
discharges, local reclamation programs, routine maintenance of preexisting operations, public
emergency activity
Test Comprehensive
Questions (Frequently Tested)
with Verified Answers
What element is targeted by water quality criteria? - Answer: Phosphorous, it indicates pollution by
bonding with other pollutants.
At what % impervious cover are streams substantially affected? - Answer: 25%
what is the site-based load limit for water quality? - Answer: 0.41 lbs/acre/yr total phosphorous
Virginia Runoff Reduction Method- method of load calculations - Answer: load calculations based on
land cover type and soil type.
what must happen to potentially harmful sheet flow runoff? - Answer: Must be diverted to stormwater
conveyance system.
SWM ponds must be able to convey water safely up to what level storm event? - Answer: must be able
to safely convey up to a 100 yr storm.
Define LDA - Answer: Land disturbing activity; any man-made change to the land surface that potentially
changes its runoff characteristics; includes clearing, grading, and excavation.
What size LDA must comply with stormwater management regulation? in CPBA areas? - Answer:
anything of 1 acre or more, or 2500 ft^2 in CPBA areas; may be more stringent locally.
what are some activities exempt from SWM regulations? - Answer: mining, agriculture, sewer
discharges, local reclamation programs, routine maintenance of preexisting operations, public
emergency activity
