North Charleston, South Carolina is a rapidly growing city with a population of over 115,000 residents. As the third-largest city in the state and home to numerous industrial facilities and businesses, North Charleston has faced significant challenges with stormwater management. Stormwater management refers to the process of controlling and treating runoff from rain or melting snow. This includes collecting, storing, conveying, treating, and discharging stormwater to protect public health and safety as well as prevent property damage. In North Charleston's case, stormwater management also plays a crucial role in protecting water quality in nearby rivers and streams that flow into the Atlantic Ocean. The history of stormwater management contractors in North Charleston dates back several decades. In the early days of development in the city during the mid-20th century, there was little concern for managing stormwater runoff. The focus at that time was on rapid urbanization and economic growth rather than environmental protection. However, by the late 1970s and early 1980s, it became apparent that uncontrolled stormwater runoff was causing severe flooding issues throughout North Charleston. With limited resources available for addressing these problems on their own, city officials turned to contracting out services from private companies specializing in stormwater management. One of the earliest contractors involved in managing North Charleston's stormwater was CDM Smith Inc., which had been established since 1947 but opened its first office branch in South Carolina only around this time period. The company initially focused on providing engineering services for water supply systems but eventually expanded its expertise into other areas such as wastewater treatment plants and flood control projects. In addition to CDM Smith Inc., another major player emerged during this era – Brown & Caldwell Environmental Engineers (BCEE). Founded in California back in 1947 by Dave Brown Jr., BCEE opened its first East Coast office branch right here within North Charleston itself between Marlboro Street NE Park Circle Road approximately two decades later. The company is still active in the area to this day and has been involved in several notable projects such as the Charleston Harbor Deepening Project. The 1990s saw a significant increase in stormwater management contractors operating within North Charleston, with firms like Hazen and Sawyer also entering the scene around this time. Founded back in 1951 by Lester A. Hazen and Charles N. Sawyer Jr., the company specialized primarily in water supply engineering at first before branching out into other areas of environmental engineering, including stormwater management. As North Charleston continued to grow, so did its need for more advanced and efficient stormwater management solutions. In response to this demand, companies like Kimley-Horn & Associates Inc., HDR Engineering Inc., and GEL Engineering LLC entered the market during the early to mid-2000s. Kimley-Horn & Associates was founded back in 1967 by Robert B. Kimley Jr. and John J.Horn III who initially ran their business from Raleigh, NC but eventually opened up an office branch here in North Charleston towards the end of that decade – marking their entry into South Carolina's markets (including civil construction) since then. HDR Engineering Inc., on the other hand, traces its roots all way back to 1917 when Harvey Higley started it as a small architecture firm called "Higley Company" based out of Omaha Nebraska while working on transportation projects for Union Pacific Railroad Co.. Over time however – through organic growth or acquisitions – HDR expanded its portfolio to include work across many sectors beyond just transportation including consulting services related specifically aimed towards helping cities better manage water resources sustainably; one example being their involvement with designing new flood mitigation plans for New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina struck there about two decades ago). In recent years we've seen even more companies enter North Charleston's stormwater management arena such as Stantec Consulting Services Inc.; Arcadis US Inc.; and Nobel Environmental Technologies Corp – all of which have been helping the city to achieve its goals for sustainable stormwater management. Stantec's roots date back to 1998 when it was formed as a merger between three Canadian companies, while Arcadis has its origins in the Netherlands but established operations within North Charleston in 2010. On the other hand, Noble Environmental Technologies Corp is a local company that specializes in green infrastructure solutions for managing stormwater runoff. In conclusion, North Charleston's history with stormwater management contractors reflects its changing priorities as a city. From initially prioritizing economic growth over environmental concerns to now actively seeking out innovative solutions for sustainable stormwater management, these contractors have played an essential role in shaping the city's landscape and protecting its residents from flooding and water pollution. As North Charleston continues to grow and face new challenges related to climate change and urbanization, it is likely that we will see even more advancements and developments in stormwater management technology from these dedicated contractors.

Stormwater management contractors play a crucial role in the proper management and control of stormwater runoff. With the increasing frequency and intensity of storms due to climate change, it has become imperative to have effective stormwater management systems in place. This is where stormwater management contractors come into the picture. Stormwater refers to rain or melted snow that flows over land and does not get absorbed into the ground. As this water runs off, it can pick up pollutants such as oil, grease, chemicals, debris, and sediment from various surfaces like rooftops, roads, parking lots, and construction sites. If left unmanaged or untreated, this polluted runoff can cause severe environmental damage by contaminating water bodies like rivers and lakes. The responsibility for managing stormwater falls on both individuals and businesses alike. However, most people do not have the expertise or resources to effectively manage stormwater on their own. This is where hiring a professional contractor specializing in stormwater management becomes essential. A Stormwater Management Contractor (SMC) is a company that provides services related to designing, building, maintaining, and repairing stormwater infrastructure like detention ponds, retention basins, rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavements, green roofs, and other techniques designed to capture and treat polluted runoff before it enters our natural waterways. One of the primary responsibilities of an SMC is developing comprehensive drainage plans for new construction projects or existing developments with poor drainage systems. They assess the topography of an area along with soil composition through site surveys before proposing appropriate measures for capturing excess rainfall while minimizing erosion risks. Furthermore, an SMC works closely with local authorities to ensure compliance with federal regulations regarding handling contaminated runoff under programs like National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). These regulations require certain industries such as manufacturing plants and construction companies to obtain permits if they discharge any pollutants into watersheds – something that an SMC can help with. Additionally, stormwater management contractors are knowledgeable about different techniques and technologies for managing stormwater. They have the expertise to design and install various structures like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and green roofs that capture excess runoff and filter out pollutants before they reach our water bodies. These contractors also have access to specialized equipment necessary for maintaining these structures efficiently. Another essential function of an SMC is conducting inspections of existing stormwater management systems to ensure they are functioning correctly. This includes regular maintenance activities such as cleaning debris from catch basins, removing sediment from detention ponds, repairing damaged pipes or outlets that could cause flooding during heavy rains. Moreover, SMCs provide emergency services in case of severe weather events or natural disasters like hurricanes or floods. In such situations, they work closely with first responders to mitigate damage caused by excessive runoff and prevent further contamination of water bodies. In addition to their technical expertise in managing stormwater infrastructure, stormwater management contractors also educate the public on ways they can play a role in preventing pollution through simple actions like properly disposing of household waste and avoiding harmful chemicals on outdoor surfaces. They also conduct community outreach programs highlighting the importance of proper stormwater management practices at homes and offices alike. Furthermore, hiring an SMC has many benefits beyond just complying with regulations. Properly managed stormwater reduces erosion risks, improves water quality in surrounding areas, and enhances the overall aesthetic value of a property. It can even increase property values by reducing flood risks – something that is becoming increasingly important due to climate change-induced extreme weather events. To conclude, the role played by stormwater management contractors cannot be overstated when it comes to protecting our environment from polluted runoff. Their expertise in designing effective drainage plans, installing appropriate infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with regulations helps reduce environmental degradation while improving the quality of life for all living beings that rely on clean water sources. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals, businesses, and government agencies to recognize the importance of stormwater management contractors and invest in their services to create a sustainable future for our planet.

North Charleston, South Carolina has a long history of implementing stormwater management practices to address flooding and water quality issues in the city. As one of the largest cities in the state, with a population of over 110,000 people and an area of 76 square miles, North Charleston is susceptible to stormwater runoff due to its urban landscape. The city's first significant effort towards managing stormwater occurred in the early 1970s when it created its own drainage department. This department was responsible for designing and constructing drainage systems throughout the city. However, it wasn't until the late 1980s that North Charleston began to focus more specifically on stormwater management as an individual issue. In response to increasing concerns about flooding and water pollution from stormwater runoff, North Charleston established its Storm Water Management Department (SWMD) in 1989. This department was tasked with developing strategies and programs to improve water quality and reduce flood risks within the city. One of SWMD's earliest initiatives was partnering with local contractors who had experience in stormwater management projects. These partnerships allowed for efficient implementation of various projects such as installing retention ponds, constructing green infrastructure like rain gardens or bioswales, and repairing or upgrading existing drainage systems. As awareness grew about environmental impacts caused by traditional grey infrastructure methods (e.g., pipes), SWMD shifted its focus towards incorporating more green infrastructure solutions into their plans. The use of green infrastructure not only helps manage stormwater but also provides other benefits such as reducing heat island effect, improving air quality, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing community aesthetics. Over time, numerous contractors have worked closely with SWMD on a range of projects aimed at improving overall watershed health within North Charleston. Some notable examples include: 1) In partnership with Biohabitats Inc., SWMD developed several Low Impact Development (LID) demonstration sites throughout North Charleston. LID techniques aim at mimicking natural hydrologic processes to treat and manage stormwater. These demonstration sites helped educate the public and local contractors about the benefits of LID practices. 2) In 2015, SWMD collaborated with EarthBalance Corporation to implement a comprehensive stormwater management plan for a new industrial park in North Charleston. The project included construction of bioswales, pervious pavement, and rain gardens to control stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces like parking lots. 3) As part of its Green Infrastructure Plan adopted in 2016, SWMD partnered with Stantec Consulting Services Inc. to develop a green infrastructure masterplan that identified priority areas for implementing green infrastructure projects throughout the city. In addition to these partnerships, SWMD has also worked closely with other agencies such as the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the Lowcountry Stormwater Partners Network to develop region-wide solutions for managing stormwater in North Charleston. Today, North Charleston's Storm Water Management Department continues to prioritize effective partnerships with experienced contractors as it works towards improving water quality and reducing flood risks within the city. With an ever-growing population and urban landscape, these partnerships are crucial in ensuring sustainable management of stormwater now and in the future.

North Charleston, South Carolina is a bustling city located in the Lowcountry region of the state. With a population of over 115,000 people and growing, it is the third largest city in South Carolina. The area encompasses approximately 76 square miles and is situated just north of its sister city, Charleston. First settled in the late 1600s by English colonists, North Charleston has a rich history that spans centuries. It was originally known as Wescott Plantation and primarily an agricultural community until the early 20th century when industrialization began to take hold. As railroads were built through the area, factories and mills began to pop up along their routes, leading to a surge in economic growth. Today, North Charleston has evolved into one of South Carolina's most diverse cities with a thriving economy driven by industries such as aerospace/aviation, automotive manufacturing, healthcare services and technology. It also serves as home to Joint Base Charleston which houses both Air Force and Navy installations. One of North Charleston's biggest draws for businesses is its location - it sits at the crossroads between two major interstates (I-26 and I-526) making it easily accessible from other major cities like Atlanta or Charlotte. This accessibility has made it an ideal hub for transportation logistics companies such as FedEx Freight and UPS among others. In addition to its strong business sector, North Charleston boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene with several museums including the H.L.Hunley Museum which honors Confederate submarine crews who lost their lives during battle; The Exchange Park Fairgrounds which hosts numerous festivals throughout the year; The Performing Arts Center featuring Broadway shows; plus many more galleries showcasing local artists' works. The city also takes pride in preserving its historical sites - some notable examples include Fort Sumter National Monument where visitors can learn about Civil War history firsthand; Middleton Place Plantation & Gardens which offers tours through beautifully preserved grounds dating back to the 1700s; and Magnolia Cemetery where many notable individuals from South Carolina's past are buried. In recent years, North Charleston has also made significant strides in improving its quality of life for residents. The city has invested in developing green spaces such as Riverfront Park which offers a scenic view of the Cooper River and is a popular spot for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking and biking. The North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center complex features an indoor arena that hosts concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment options throughout the year. The city also takes great pride in its education system with several highly ranked public schools as well as private school options available to families. Higher education institutions such as Trident Technical College and Charleston Southern University offer a variety of degree programs to students. North Charleston is also known for its rich culinary scene with a mix of traditional Lowcountry cuisine and modern fusion dishes influenced by the diverse cultures within the city. Residents can choose from an array of dining experiences ranging from casual seafood shacks to upscale fine dining restaurants. However, like any growing city, North Charleston still faces challenges including income inequality and crime rates higher than national averages. But efforts are being made by local government officials to address these issues through initiatives aimed at promoting economic development in underserved areas and increasing community policing efforts. In conclusion, North Charleston is a dynamic city that continues to evolve while preserving its history and culture. With a strong economy driven by diverse industries, abundant recreational opportunities, top-rated educational institutions, and delicious food options - it truly offers something for everyone. As it continues to grow into one of South Carolina's major cities, there is no doubt that North Charleston will remain a vibrant hub full of southern charm.

Stormwater management has been an essential aspect of human life since the beginning of civilization. As early as 3000 BC, ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia and Egypt had developed systems to manage stormwater runoff from heavy rains and floods. These early methods involved constructing drainage channels and canals to redirect water away from populated areas. Throughout history, the need for effective stormwater management became more pressing with the rise of urbanization. The rapid growth of cities during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century led to increased impervious surfaces, such as roads and buildings, which prevent water from infiltrating into the ground. This resulted in a higher volume of stormwater runoff that needed to be managed. In response to this issue, governments began implementing regulations for stormwater management in urban areas. In Europe, some cities established underground sewer systems in the mid-19th century to control flooding and reduce pollution in rivers caused by rainwater runoff. However, it wasn't until the late 20th century when modern stormwater management practices were developed. In the United States, after decades of unregulated development causing significant environmental damage due to excess stormwater runoff, Congress passed the Clean Water Act (CWA) in 1972. The CWA set standards for controlling pollutants entering watersheds through point sources (e.g., industrial discharges) and non-point sources (e.g., agricultural runoff). It also required municipalities to obtain permits for their municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s). This legislation prompted local governments across America to start investing in better infrastructure for managing stormwater effectively. Storm sewers were constructed or upgraded with larger pipes and detention basins built-in flood-prone areas. As technology advanced over time, so did our understanding of how different types of land use impact water quality and quantity within a watershed. With this knowledge came a shift towards more sustainable practices that aimed at mitigating these impacts. One of the most significant advancements in stormwater management was the adoption of Low Impact Development (LID) practices. LID refers to a set of site design and land development strategies that aim to mimic natural hydrologic processes by managing stormwater at its source. These techniques include green roofs, permeable pavement, rain gardens, and bioretention areas. In recent years, there has also been a growing trend towards implementing green infrastructure solutions for stormwater management. Green infrastructure refers to any system or practice that uses natural processes to manage water runoff from precipitation. This can include features such as rain gardens, bioswales, and constructed wetlands. The emergence of green infrastructure has led to an increase in demand for specialized contractors who have the expertise and experience in designing and installing these systems. These contractors work closely with engineers, landscape architects, and other professionals to develop innovative solutions for managing stormwater while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of urban landscapes. Furthermore, advancements in technology have allowed for more efficient monitoring and maintenance of stormwater management systems. Many contractors now use sensors and data analytics tools to track performance metrics such as flow rates and water quality parameters. This information helps them identify issues early on before they become major problems. In addition to their role in designing and constructing stormwater management systems, contractors also play a crucial role in educating communities about the importance of proper stormwater management practices. They work closely with local governments to provide training programs on best practices for property owners regarding pollution prevention measures like proper disposal of household chemicals. Moreover

Stormwater management contractors have a long and varied history, dating back to ancient civilizations where early forms of drainage systems were built to control flooding and channel water away from cities. However, the modern concept of stormwater management contracting has evolved significantly in recent decades as increasing urbanization and development have placed greater strain on natural drainage systems. In the United States, one of the earliest examples of organized stormwater management can be traced back to the 1800s when New York City began constructing an extensive sewer system to address sanitation issues caused by rapid urban growth. This project was followed by similar efforts in other major cities such as Boston and Chicago. Throughout the 20th century, advances in engineering technology led to more sophisticated stormwater management techniques being developed. This included the use of detention ponds, infiltration basins, and green infrastructure solutions such as rain gardens and permeable pavement. As these methods became more widely recognized for their effectiveness at controlling runoff pollution and reducing flood risks, demand for specialized contractors skilled in implementing them grew. Today's stormwater management contractors are highly trained professionals with expertise in a variety of areas including civil engineering, landscape architecture, environmental science, hydrology/hydraulics modeling, construction management, erosion control measures and regulatory compliance. They work closely with municipalities, developers/contractors,and property owners to design customized solutions that meet specific site conditions while adhering to local regulations. One significant aspect that has influenced stormwater management contracting is government regulation. In response to growing concerns about water quality degradation from contaminated runoff entering streams/rivers/lakes/oceans), federal laws like The Clean Water Act (CWA) were passed which imposed stricter requirements on how pollutants should be controlled/disposed off-site during construction projects. These new regulations created a need for experienced contractors who could navigate complex permitting processes associated with various types/scales/locations of developments - residential/commercial/industrial/municipal/governmental/institutional. In addition, the rise of sustainable development practices and green building certifications such as LEED have further shaped the stormwater management industry. These initiatives have placed greater emphasis on using environmentally-friendly techniques to manage stormwater, leading contractors to incorporate more innovative solutions into their projects. Stormwater management contractors also play a crucial role in disaster relief efforts. In areas prone to severe weather events like hurricanes and heavy rainfall, they are often called upon to design and implement emergency drainage systems that can mitigate flood risks and protect communities from damage. Looking ahead, it is clear that stormwater management contracting will continue to evolve as new technology and best practices emerge. With climate change increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, there will be an even greater demand for skilled professionals who can effectively manage stormwater in a changing environment. As such, this industry is poised for continued growth as society recognizes the importance of responsible stormwater management for protecting public health and preserving our natural resources.

North Charleston, South Carolina has a rich and complex history that dates back centuries. This bustling city, located in the coastal Lowcountry region of the state, boasts a diverse population and a vibrant culture that reflects its past influences. From its origins as an important colonial port to its present-day status as an industrial hub, North Charleston has evolved into a dynamic city with deep roots and a promising future. The Early Years: Native American Inhabitants and European Colonization Prior to European colonization, the land where North Charleston now stands was inhabited by several Native American tribes such as the Wando, Etiwan, and Sewee people. These indigenous groups were skilled hunters and farmers who lived off the abundant natural resources found in this area. In 1670, English settlers arrived in what is now known as Charles Town (present-day Charleston) led by Captain William Sayle. The colony quickly grew due to fertile soil for agriculture and strategic location for trade with other colonies along the Atlantic coast. As more Europeans settled in Charles Town during this time period, they began encroaching on native lands causing conflicts between colonists and Native Americans. Revolutionary War Era: Growth of Plantations During the Revolutionary War era in the late 1700s, plantations flourished throughout North Charleston. The fertile land was ideal for cash crops like rice and indigo which required large labor forces typically made up of enslaved Africans brought over from West Africa. This resulted in significant economic growth for those who owned these plantations but also perpetuated systemic racism within society. In addition to agriculture-based industries like cotton production on plantations surrounding North Charleston's rural areas at this time there was also significant development occurring closer to downtown Charlestown including shipbuilding businesses along Cooper River waterfront fueled by demand from transportation routes connecting northern states with southern ports like Savannah or New Orleans via waterways such as Ashley River Canal built around same time frame too. Civil War and Reconstruction: The Rise of Industry The Civil War had a profound impact on North Charleston as it did on the rest of the South. The city was occupied by Union troops in 1865 and suffered significant damage during this time. After the war ended, reconstruction efforts began to rebuild infrastructure and revive economic activity. During this period, there was a shift from agriculture-based industries to more industrial pursuits. With its prime location along major waterways, North Charleston became an important port for shipping goods such as cotton, lumber, and phosphate. This led to the growth of manufacturing plants producing textiles, paper products, and fertilizers. 20th Century: Growth and Diversity In the early 1900s, North Charleston continued to grow as a hub for industry with new companies moving into the area or expanding their operations. This brought an influx of workers from other parts of the country and world resulting in a diverse population that still exists today. World War II also played a significant role in shaping North Charleston's development. In 1941, construction began on what is now known as Joint Base Charleston which includes both Air Force Base (AFB)and Naval Weapons Station (NWS). These military installations provided employment opportunities for local residents while also boosting economic growth through increased trade activities. Post-World War II era saw further expansion with establishment of several suburban neighborhoods like Park Circle where many servicemen settled after completing tours duty at nearby bases contributing significantly growing middle class population who worked private sector jobs too like aerospace engineering or healthcare fields among others even though some social issues persisted especially regarding segregation civil rights movement gained momentum throughout decade leading up desegregation schools public facilities late '60s thanks largely efforts activists like Septima Clark who organized literacy programs African Americans disenfranchised due Jim Crow laws effect here well elsewhere across southern region nation large before passage federal legislation civil rights act Voting Rights Act mid-'60s finally established legal protections equal rights citizens regardless race. Present Day: A Thriving City Today, North Charleston is a thriving city with a diverse economy that includes major industries such as aerospace, military, and healthcare. The city is home to the Boeing Company's second-largest manufacturing facility which produces the 787 Dreamliner aircraft. It also hosts several major medical centers and hospitals that provide quality care for residents and visitors alike. The cultural landscape of North Charleston is also vibrant with annual events like the North Charleston Arts Festival showcasing local artists and performers. The city also boasts numerous parks and recreational areas including Riverfront Park along the Cooper River waterfront where visitors can enjoy scenic views or participate in outdoor activities. Despite its growth and progress, North Charleston still faces challenges related to social inequality and economic disparities. However, efforts are being made by community leaders to address these issues through initiatives focused on education, job training programs, affordable housing options, and support for small businesses. In conclusion, North Charleston's history reflects a journey of transformation from its early days as a colonial port to its present-day status as an industrial hub with a diverse population. As this dynamic city continues to evolve, it remains rooted in its past while looking towards a promising future filled with opportunities for all who call it home.

North Charleston, South Carolina has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the colonial era. The city's location on the banks of the Ashley River made it an important port for trade and commerce during this time. In the early 1600s, North Charleston was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sewee and Etiwan. However, in 1670, English colonists established Charles Town (now known as Charleston) just across from present-day North Charleston. This marked the beginning of European settlement in the area. During this same period, rice plantations began to spring up along the Ashley River, bringing with them enslaved Africans who were forced to work on these large agricultural estates. This would have a lasting impact on North Charleston's demographics and culture. In 1783, after gaining independence from Britain, South Carolina became one of the original thirteen states of America. By then, Charles Town had grown significantly into a bustling seaport town. In response to its rapid growth and expanding population, portions of land north of Charles Town were annexed to create what is now known as North Charleston. Throughout much of its early history as part of Charles Town/Charleston County (which it remained until officially becoming its own city in 1972), North Charleston remained primarily rural with small clusters of farms scattered throughout. It wasn't until after World War II that significant development took place in terms of industry and infrastructure. With access to deep water ports along both rivers (the Cooper River borders eastwardly running Berkeley County while all other sides are bordered by sections within Charlestowne County). This strategic location played an essential role in attracting major industries such as paper mills and chemical companies which helped transform North Charleston into an industrial hub by mid-20th century. However, this rapid growth also brought challenges for residents living near these factories due to pollution concerns resulting from their operations. Civil rights movement efforts challenging discriminatory hiring practices in these industries also took place during this time, led by local activists like Septima Poinsette Clark. In 1972, North Charleston officially became its own city through a referendum. This allowed the city to have more control over its growth and development. With the establishment of the Charleston Naval Base in 1901 and later the Charleston Air Force Base in 1939, North Charleston's economy continued to expand as it became home to thousands of military personnel and their families. The closure of both bases in the early 1990s brought about an economic downturn for North Charleston. However, with strategic planning and investment from both public and private sectors, the city has been able to rebound and thrive in recent years. Today, North Charleston is a diverse community with a population of over 110,000 people. The city continues to be an important industrial center but has also diversified its economy with growing tourism and healthcare industries. Its rich history can be seen throughout the city through historic landmarks such as Middleton Place Plantation and Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. North Charleston's history is not without challenges or controversies; however, it serves as a reminder of how far the community has come while providing insight into its continued growth and potential for future success.

Stormwater management has been an essential aspect of human civilization for centuries. In ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans and Egyptians, elaborate systems were built to manage stormwater runoff and prevent flooding. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that formalized stormwater management practices began to emerge in North Charleston, South Carolina. North Charleston is a city located on the banks of the Cooper River in Charleston County. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes before European settlers arrived in the late 1600s. As with many other cities along coastal areas, North Charleston's location made it prone to flooding during heavy rain events and hurricanes. In its early years, North Charleston did not have any established stormwater management systems or regulations in place. This lack of infrastructure led to frequent flooding and property damage throughout the city. As development increased in the mid-20th century, it became clear that something needed to be done about this issue. The first significant step towards managing stormwater in North Charleston was taken in 1972 when Congress passed the Clean Water Act (CWA). The CWA aimed to regulate pollution levels in rivers, lakes, and streams across the United States by setting national water quality standards. This act required municipalities like North Charleston to develop plans for controlling pollution from both point sources (such as industrial facilities) and non-point sources (such as urban runoff). As a result of this legislation, local governments began implementing various stormwater management programs and projects throughout their communities. In North Charleston specifically, these efforts were spearheaded by contractors who specialized in designing and constructing stormwater infrastructure. One notable contractor involved with early stormwater management projects was Davis & Floyd Inc., founded by two engineers – James Moultrie "Mutt" Floyd Jr., PE; Harold Wray Davis Jr., PE – who had worked together at another engineering firm before striking out on their own in 1954. Davis & Floyd Inc. was at the forefront of stormwater management in North Charleston, working on projects such as the drainage system for Pinehaven Park and a flood control project for the city's main watershed, Hampton Branch. The company also assisted with developing water quality improvement plans and implementing best management practices (BMPs) to reduce pollution levels in local water bodies. In 1990, Congress passed amendments to the CWA that further strengthened regulations surrounding stormwater runoff. These changes required municipalities to obtain permits for discharging stormwater into local watersheds and develop comprehensive stormwater management plans. This new legislation opened up opportunities for contractors specializing in stormwater management throughout North Charleston. One such company was Civil Engineering Consultants (CEC), founded by Arthur E. "Gene" Reed Jr., PE in 1985. CEC worked closely with government agencies and private developers to design and construct various BMPs, including retention ponds, infiltration systems, bioswales, and rain gardens. These measures helped to reduce pollutants entering local waterways while also mitigating flooding issues within developed areas of North Charleston. As technology has advanced over recent decades, so too have methods used by contractors for managing stormwater runoff in North Charleston. In addition to traditional BMPs like detention ponds and swales, newer techniques – such as green roofs and permeable pavement – are now being utilized more widely. One notable example is the Rain Garden Project completed by Davis & Floyd Inc. at Trident Technical College's campus in North Charleston around 2011-2012. This project involved using vegetation-filled depressions called rain gardens to capture runoff from parking lots before it entered nearby wetlands. Today, there are several contractors operating within North Charleston who specialize solely in designing innovative solutions for managing urban runoff while minimizing its impact on the environment. For instance, Biohabitats is an ecological restoration firm that has been active since 1989; they have spearheaded projects such as the revitalization of the Ashley River waterfront through shoreline stabilization, habitat conservation, and stormwater management. In summary, North Charleston's history with stormwater management has evolved significantly over the years. From a lack of infrastructure and regulations in its early days to more comprehensive systems and advanced techniques used today, contractors have played an essential role in shaping the city's approach to managing stormwater runoff. As threats from climate change continue to grow, it is likely that these contractors will continue to adapt and innovate in their efforts to protect North Charleston from flooding and pollution caused by urban development.

As urbanization and development continue to expand, the management of stormwater has become an increasingly important issue for communities. Stormwater refers to any type of precipitation that falls onto land surfaces and does not infiltrate into the ground, instead flowing over impervious surfaces such as roads, driveways, and rooftops. This runoff can cause various environmental problems if left unmanaged, including flooding, erosion, pollution of waterways, and damage to infrastructure. To address these issues effectively, many local governments and private entities have turned to stormwater management contractors. These professionals are responsible for designing and implementing systems that collect, store, treat, or reuse stormwater in a sustainable manner. The role of a stormwater management contractor is multifaceted and requires a diverse skill set. They must possess knowledge in engineering principles related to hydrology (the study of water movement), hydraulics (the study of fluid behavior), erosion control measures, environmental regulations pertaining to water quality protection laws at both state and federal levels. One essential task undertaken by stormwater management contractors is the design and construction of green infrastructure projects. Green infrastructure refers to engineered systems that mimic natural processes by capturing rain where it falls rather than allowing it to run off into sewers or other drainage systems. Examples include rain gardens (planted depressions that collect runoff) or bioswales (vegetated channels designed for managing runoff). By utilizing green infrastructure techniques in their designs, stormwater management contractors can reduce peak flows during storms while also treating pollutants through natural filtration processes. Additionally