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1. What is storm water runoff?

Storm water runoff is the rain that hits the ground and flows off streets, rooftops, and lawns. Storm water is collected by storm drains and drainage ditches and flows into streams, rivers, and lakes.

2. What is the problem with storm water runoff pollution anyway?

Storm water runoff picks up pollutants and debris as it flows across rooftops and lawns, streets, and parking lots. During periods of rainfall, pollutants are picked up and washed directly  into our streams, rivers, and lakes. Some of these pollutants include oil and grease, harmful bacteria, fertilizers, toxic chemicals, and other contaminants which are harmful to both people and aquatic life. A common misconception is that water running off streets and into a storm drain goes to a wastewater treatment plant. It does not. In fact, storm water usually receives no treatment.

3. What is the source of all these pollutants?

We all are! The fact is that all of us are part of the storm water pollution problem. Many of the things that we do on a daily basis, including taking care of our lawns, driving our cars, washing our vehicles, and walking our pets, can contribute to storm water pollution. Since we are all part of the problem, we now have the opportunity to be part of the solution.

4. What can I do to prevent storm water pollution?

• Never dump anything down storm drains
• Keep leaves and grass clippings out of the street, gutter, drainage ditches, and storm drains
• Use fertilizer and pesticides sparingly
• Vegetate bare spots in your yard
• Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces
• Check vehicles for leaks and recycle motor oil
• Pick up after your pet
• Throw litter in its place
• If you wash your vehicle at home, do so on the lawn rather than on pavement
• Have your septic tank pumped and the system inspected regularly