History of the WEF Stormwater Institute

Created in 2015, the Water Environment Federation (WEF) Stormwater Institute began as a center for excellence and innovation focused on developing best-in-class solutions to stormwater runoff and wet weather issues. The institute drew from the broad diversity, expertise, and engagement of the WEF membership, which is the largest and most informed clean water solutions membership in the world. The institute sought to identify cross-cutting issues, convene experts to tackle those issues, provide insights and leadership to policymakers, and help chart a new course toward a healthier and more sustainable stormwater system in the U.S. and beyond.

The WEF Stormwater Institute focused on addressing critical stormwater management issues as a means to protect public health and the environment. It served as a conduit for information and feedback between the stormwater and regulatory communities.

The Stormwater Institute was originally conceived for organizations (not individuals) to provide funding for efforts in meeting critical needs within the stormwater sector.

Due to the support of these organizational subscribers, WEF has been able to create several stormwater products and services.

• The National Green Infrastructure Certification Program (NGICP) began under the SWI. NGICP was designed to verify that those certified successfully demonstrate competency in the foundational knowledge, concepts, and terminology required to perform tasks related to green infrastructure (GI) construction, inspection, and maintenance. Once established this program was transferred to another organization for long-term success.
• Stormwater Testing Evaluation for Products and Practices (STEPP) for technology evaluation also originated within SWI. When this program reached a steady state, it was transferred to the National Municipal Stormwater Alliance.

Several other SWI programs have emerged and continue to operate within WEF. 

• National Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Needs Assessment Survey
• National Municipal Stormwater and Green Infrastructure Award Program
• Water Policy Forum, which promotes Stormwater Policy and Advocacy

As the Stormwater Community at WEF has matured, the Stormwater Institute has evolved to become an affinity group within this community. Today, the Stormwater Institute is made up of sponsors, donors, and corporate partners who work to benefit the overall Stormwater Community.