Prevent Stormwater Pollution
Precipitation from rain or melting snow that flows over the ground creates stormwater runoff. Surfaces like streets, driveways, and sidewalks prevent runoff from being absorbed into the ground. Stormwater runoff flows into storm drains or directly into bodies of water.
Stormwater runoff can pick up chemicals, debris, dirt and other pollutants that will contaminate our water. It is a common misconception among residents that stormwater is treated before it reaches the waterways. This assumption is false, and every thing picked up by the runoff empties into our natural waterways.
By practicing healthy household habits residents can limit the pollution dumped into our storm drains, which empty into the waterways. Listed below are ways people can limit stormwater pollution.
- Use fertilizers sparingly and sweep up driveways, sidewalks, and roads.
- Never dump anything down storm drains.
- Compost your yard waste.
- Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces.
- Take your car to the car wash instead of washing it in the driveway.
- Check car for leaks, and recycle motor oil.
- Pick up after your pet.
To learn more about stormwater management, please visit these Web sites below.