Stormwater Runoff

When rain falls, water flows across pavement, lawns, and other surfaces and into roadside ditches, storm drains, and natural waterways. Along the way, this stormwater runoff picks up pollutants like oil, pesticides, fertilizers, pet waste, and litter. Runoff can also wash soil into the waterways in a process called erosion.

According to the US EPA, stormwater runoff is a leading cause of water quality issues in our local waterways. 

Stormwater Management via BMPs

Stormwater management practices can reduce or eliminate the negative impacts of stormwater runoff. These practices can include measures to control flooding, reduce erosion, and improve water quality.

Best Management Practices (BMPs) can be as simple as covering areas of bare soil,  or they can be a bit more involved like planting trees and shrubs. BMPs can also include construction projects that will slow down water and allow time for it to soak into the ground.