Storm Water Management Program

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is storm water pollution?

Storm water pollution refers to many types of harmful materials that are carried by rainwater and wash water through the storm drain system to our creeks and lakes. While water we use in our homes and businesses drains to a treatment plant or septic system, stormwater and anything else dumped or spilled outdoors flows into the storm drain system and directly to our waterways. Storm water is not cleaned or treated in any way.

Storm water pollution has many sources. One of the most common is the illicit disposal or spilling of wastes directly into storm drains, like pouring used motor oil or paint directly into a storm drain or ditch. Another common source of pollution is sediment from disturbed areas such as construction sites.

Pollutants also enter storm drains when it rains; rain runs off roofs, streets, parking lots, and other paved and impervious surfaces and flows into the nearest storm drain, picking up impurities along the way. Rain, as well as waters from hoses and sprinklers, carries detergents from car washing in addition to sediment, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers to the storm drain. From the storm drain, water flows directly into the nearest waterway - garbage, toxins, sediment and all.

Is it OK to wash or sweep leaves, grass, soil, or other natural elements down the storm drain?

Grass and leaves repeatedly swept or washed into the storm drains can become a breeding ground for rodents and insects and can clog drains, causing localized flooding. Plant matter washed into bodies of water deprives aquatic life of oxygen as well. Soil is easily washed into storm drains when it rains and is a serious problem at many construction areas. This sediment clouds water and destroys aquatic habitats.

What can I do to help reduce storm water pollution?

You can do your part to prevent storm water pollution. Here are some easy steps that can be taken to prevent storm water pollution:

	Don’t dump anything down storm drains. Chemicals and products such as paint, oil, and pesticides harm fish, wildlife, and people.
	Dispose of litter properly.
	Keep storm drains clear of debris, dirt, sand, silt, and wastes.
	Prevent dripping and spilling automotive fluids. Used oil and filters, antifreeze, and other automotive fluids can be safely recycled at a local used oil collection center.
	Wash your car at a car wash or where water flows into the grass.
	Avoid over-fertilizing and never fertilize before a rain.
	Use pesticides as a last resort.
	Take steps during construction activities to prevent dirt sediments from running offsite and onto waterways.

Where can learn more information about storm water pollution?

The following links will provide useful information:

EPA Stormwater Program - Office of Wastewater Management

Center for Watershed Protection