How stormwater affects our lakes, streams and waterways

Our rivers are dependent on the surrounding lands know as the watershed. A watershed is a area of land that channels snow melt and rainfall to lakes, streams, and rivers flowing to outfall points such as reservoirs, bays and oceans. As water flows over impervious surfaces such as parking lots, roads, buildings and other structures it can pick up pollutants such as oil, paint, fertilizers, leaves, grass and sediment, transporting the water directly into storm drains that ultimately ends up in our lakes, streams and rivers.

With every rain, water flows off the lawns, streets and sidewalks and flows into our storm drains to our local river, streams, creeks and lakes. Pollutants such as grass clippings will create rapid and excessive growth of algae and aquatic plants, resulting in deteriorating water quality and impair recreational enjoyment. Toxic chemicals such as oil, gas and auto exhaust, insecticides, pesticides and zinc from roof drains and tires can also effect the health of the fish and other forms of aquatic life living in our waterways.

Keeping our waterways clean can provide commercial opportunities, recreation and a healthy fish habitat. Making small changes can lead to big improvements in preventing pollution. All of us have a role in keeping our rivers, lakes and streams clean for a healthier tomorrow.

"Thinking Tomorrows Solutions Today"

Storm water Pollution Prevention Tips

• Wash your car on the lawn or at the car wash

• Keep grass clippings out of the street and gutter

• Redirect downspouts to stay on the lawn

• Reduce fertilizer and weed control chemicals

• Keep leaf piles in park row not in the street

• Be salt wise in amount of salt use in winter months

• "Scoop the poop" dispose of pet waste by placing it in a bag and putting it in the garbage