Stormwater

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Stormwater Facts

Stormwater runoff occurs when water flows over the ground from rain or irrigation. It can pick up
debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and flow into a storm drainage system, leading directly
to local waterways.
Water that enters storms drains DOES NOT get treated – the water goes directly to the local
waterways. Hazardous household waste (such as paints, cleaners, stains and varnishes, car batteries,
motor oil, and pesticides) can be washed into storm sewer system if not properly disposed. Anything
that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the water ways we use for swimming,
fishing, and providing drinking water!
Grass cuttings should never be blown into the street and down storm drains because it can hinder
proper drainage and affect local water quality. Use a mulching mower and keep grass on the lawn;
it’s a natural fertilizer.
Eroding soil and mud, sometimes due to construction activities, ends up in the streets, drains,
ditches, and water ways. Silt fencing, berms, or properly place hay bales can help keep soil on site
and out of storm drains.

Storm Drain Marking Program: Any type of group can label storm drains, which alerts the public not
to dump any waste into the drains. Contact us to learn more and schedule your group.
Schedule a field trip for your students to tour our wetland enhancement wastewater facility.
Report a problem. If you witness dumping, littering, or improper erosion control at construction
sites, let us know.
Be a responsible homeowner:
- Keep litter, pet wastes, leaves and debris out of street gutters and storm drains.
- Apply lawn and garden chemicals sparingly and according to directions.
- Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints and other household chemicals properly—not in storm
  sewers or drains.
- Clean up spilled brake fluid, oil, grease and antifreeze. Do not hose them into the street
  where they can eventually reach local streams and lakes.
- Control soil erosion on your property by planting ground cover and stabilizing erosion-prone
  areas.
- Have your septic system inspected and pumped, at a minimum every three to five years, so
  that it operates properly.
- Purchase household detergents and cleaners that are low in phosphorous to reduce the
  amount of nutrients discharged into our lakes, streams and coastal waters.
- Learn more at: https://www3.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/solution_to_pollution.pdf

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