MS4 – Stormwater

What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is water from snow and ice melting, as well as rainwater from storms. When rain or melting snow and ice fall or flow across natural surfaces like forests and grassy areas, most of it will soak into the soil. When it lands on streets, parking lots, and other hard surfaces, it runs off to another location like a storm drain or a local waterway. Watch “Blue is the New Green” for more information.

What is Stormwater Pollution?

As stormwater flows, or snow and ice melt, the waters pick up debris, nutrients, sediment, bacteria and other chemicals which enters the storm sewer system through drains and ditches, and eventually makes its way to our lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and wetlands.

Why is Stormwater Pollution something I should be concerned about?

When stormwater goes down the storm drains, it enters our water bodies untreated. This means that the water does not pass through the wastewater treatment plant for clean-up. This allows everything that is on the land, including grease, grass clippings, trash, pet waste, fertilizers, pesticides and many other pollutants to go directly into our water ways. This stormwater pollution can make our waters unsuitable for swimming, fishing or drinking. It also degrades habitat for our fish, wildlife and other aquatic critters.

We all have something to contribute when it comes to stormwater pollution. Its up to us if we want to contribute positively or negatively! Read our pages to find out more about how you can help reduce stormwater pollution!

Source: North Carolina Clean Water Education Partnership: https://nc-cleanwater.com/stormwater-pollution/stormwater-pollution-infographic/#