Where should vehicle and equipment washing be conducted to minimize stormwater impact?

Conducting vehicle and equipment washing away from surface waters and inlets is critical in minimizing stormwater impact because it prevents contaminants from entering water bodies. When washing occurs close to surface waters, runoff can carry oils, grease, detergents, and sediment directly into these waters, leading to pollution that adversely affects aquatic life and water quality.

By situating washing activities away from sensitive areas, the likelihood of harmful substances contaminating nearby streams, lakes, or storm drains is significantly reduced. This practice is essential for maintaining the health of surrounding ecosystems and complying with environmental regulations aimed at protecting water quality.

The other options suggest practices that could potentially contribute to water pollution or are inefficient in managing runoff, which reinforces the importance of choosing locations wisely for vehicle and equipment washing activities.