Stormwater Pollution: Impact On Colorado's Waterways

Stormwater pollution occurs when rain or snowmelt flows over streets and picks up trash, oil, dirt, and other pollutants as it travels. In Colorado, stormwater can be a significant source of pollution, carrying nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as sediments, oils, and chemicals from cars, and fertilizers and pesticides from lawn care. While Colorado has implemented various measures to mitigate stormwater pollution, including the adoption of the Clean Water Action Plan by the EPA in 2010, and the work of organizations such as the Colorado Stormwater Council, stormwater continues to be a pressing issue affecting the state's water quality. With over 105,000 river miles and 249,000 lake acres, the impact of stormwater pollution on Colorado's water bodies is a critical concern.

The impact of stormwater pollution on Colorado's water quality

Stormwater pollution is a pressing issue in Colorado, with far-reaching effects on the state's water quality. Stormwater refers to water from rain or snowmelt that does not infiltrate the ground and instead flows across the land, eventually draining into local creeks and rivers. As it flows, stormwater picks up trash, oil, dirt, and other pollutants, which are then deposited into water bodies. This form of pollution has significant consequences for Colorado's water resources and the ecosystem.

Sources of Stormwater Pollution

Colorado's stormwater pollution arises from various human activities and natural sources. Urban and suburban development contributes to stormwater pollution through the displacement of sediment during construction. The increase in impervious surfaces, such as roads, sidewalks, and parking lots, also leads to greater stormwater runoff, carrying with it pollutants like sediment, oil, chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Agricultural activities are another significant source of stormwater pollution in Colorado. With 92% of the state's water used for agriculture, runoff from croplands after irrigation can carry large quantities of fertilizers, pesticides, and sediment into rivers and streams. The primary pollutants from agricultural lands include selenium, salts, and nitrogen.

Energy development, including drilling and well construction, also poses a threat to water quality. Sediment from construction sites, leaks from chemical pits, waste injection into underground wells, and hazardous material spills can all contaminate waterways.

Impact on Water Quality

Additionally, stormwater pollution contributes to the degradation of aquatic habitats. Excessive sediments deposited on stream and lake bottoms can smother and damage spawning areas, reducing the survival and growth rates of aquatic species.

Mitigation Efforts

Recognizing the importance of clean water for the state's economy, agriculture, and tourism, Colorado has implemented several measures to address stormwater pollution. The Colorado Stormwater Council (CSC), for example, is a dedicated organization that collaborates with municipalities and organizations to develop innovative stormwater programs and protect water resources.

The state has also enforced stricter stormwater regulations, aligning with federal initiatives like the Clean Water Action Plan. These regulations aim to strengthen oversight and ensure compliance with water recovery procedures. Local initiatives, such as the Douglas County stormwater program, further contribute to keeping waterways clean and healthy by preventing pollutants from leaving construction sites and educating the public about stormwater issues.

Future Challenges and Solutions

While efforts to mitigate stormwater pollution are ongoing, challenges remain. Underfunding and understaffing at the Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) hinder effective inspection and enforcement of water pollution laws. Additionally, the lack of pollution control requirements for most agricultural activities and the complexity of managing stormwater runoff from development activities pose significant obstacles.

To address these challenges, Colorado needs to prioritize adequate funding and staffing for the WQCD to keep up with the state's growth. Better enforcement of existing laws and new legislation to manage stormwater runoff are also crucial. For agricultural pollution, finding ways to fund and incentivize pollution control practices is essential, potentially through grant and loan programs or fee systems.

In conclusion, stormwater pollution has a significant impact on Colorado's water quality, affecting both the ecosystem and human activities. By implementing a combination of regulatory measures, public education, and collaborative initiatives, Colorado is working towards mitigating stormwater pollution and protecting its valuable water resources.

Sources of stormwater pollution

Stormwater pollution is caused by a range of sources, both natural and human-induced. When precipitation falls on impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and roofs, it becomes stormwater runoff, flowing directly into nearby creeks and rivers without being absorbed by the ground. This runoff picks up pollutants along the way, causing water pollution.

Trash and Debris

Trash and debris that are improperly disposed of or left unsecured can be washed into stormwater systems during rain or snowmelt events. This includes items such as litter, waste from landfills, and loose garbage.

Sediment

Soil erosion is a significant source of stormwater pollution, particularly in areas with uncovered soil, such as lawns, gardens, construction sites, and farmlands. Sediment can smother stream habitats, alter stream flow, and increase nutrient levels to harmful degrees.

Nutrient-Rich Materials

Excess fertilizers and eroded soil contribute high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus to stormwater. These nutrients can cause harmful algae blooms and reduce oxygen levels in waterways, posing risks to aquatic life and swimmers.

Harmful Pathogens

Improperly disposed of pet waste, livestock manure, and failing home septic systems introduce harmful bacteria, protozoa, and viruses into stormwater. These pathogens can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and lead to swim advisories at public beaches.

Toxic Compounds

Improper or excessive use of everyday compounds, such as pesticides, road salts, and automotive fluids, can contaminate stormwater. Leaks and spills of gasoline, oil, and antifreeze from vehicles can also pollute stormwater runoff.

Industrial and Municipal Wastewater Discharges

Industrial activities and municipal wastewater treatment plants can discharge pollutants into stormwater systems. Inadequate treatment of domestic wastewater can increase the levels of ammonia, nutrients, and pathogens, further degrading water quality.

Natural Sources

In addition to human-induced sources, natural sources also contribute to stormwater pollution in Colorado. Formation with varying mineral or metal content, different soil types, and natural radionuclides like radon and uranium can impact water quality. Mountainous areas with significant snowmelt runoff and erosion from burned areas can also influence the levels of sedimentation and ash in waterways.

Regulation and enforcement of stormwater pollution

Stormwater pollution is a pressing issue in Colorado, and the state has implemented various measures to regulate and enforce stormwater management and reduce its impact on water quality. Here is an overview of the regulation and enforcement strategies in place:

Legislation and Permits

Colorado has several laws and permits in place to manage stormwater pollution. The Clean Water Act (CWA), created in 1948 and amended over the years, is a key piece of legislation that addresses stormwater pollution. The CWA sets the goal of making all US waters fishable and swimmable and establishes a regulatory structure for pollutant discharges. The Act also authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement pollution control programs and criminalizes point-source pollution into navigable waters.

The Water Quality Act of 1987 (WQA) is another important piece of legislation. It expanded the definition of wastewater to include industrial stormwater discharges and municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) as point sources. The WQA requires these point sources to obtain National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and use best management practices to reduce pollutants.

In addition, Colorado has specific stormwater ordinances and permits in place. For example, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has a Construction Stormwater Discharge Permit application process, where owners and operators can apply for new permits, modify or terminate existing permits, and manage permit contacts.

Enforcement Strategies

The primary agency responsible for enforcing stormwater pollution regulations in Colorado is the Water Quality Control Division (WQCD). However, according to a report by Environment Colorado, the WQCD is severely underfunded and understaffed, which hinders its ability to effectively enforce the regulations.

In one notable case, the US Department of Justice and the EPA announced a settlement with the City of Colorado Springs to resolve violations of the Clean Water Act related to its storm sewer system. The settlement included the State of Colorado and other stakeholders and resulted in significant reductions in the discharge of pollutants into Fountain Creek and its tributaries.

Public Education and Outreach

Douglas County, for example, has implemented a stormwater program that aims to keep waterways clean and healthy. The program focuses on preventing pollutants from leaving construction sites, prohibiting illicit discharges, and educating the public and local businesses on stormwater management.

Voluntary Controls and Grants

Colorado also employs voluntary controls and grants to improve water quality. Nonpoint source pollution controls are non-regulatory and adopted voluntarily to prevent pollution at the source. The state's nonpoint source control program uses federal grants from the Clean Water Act to support voluntary pollution reduction projects, focusing on cleaning up polluted and high-priority waters.

The cost of stormwater pollution control

Stormwater pollution is a pressing issue in Colorado, and the cost of controlling it is significant. Stormwater runoff is a major contributor to water pollution, as it carries pollutants such as pet waste, excess lawn fertilizer, motor oil, and chemicals into local waterways. The cost of stormwater pollution control includes both the financial burden and the impact on the environment and public health.

Financial Cost

The financial cost of stormwater pollution control can be substantial. In Colorado, the cost of implementing pollution control measures in the agricultural sector is estimated at $50 million per year. Additionally, it is estimated that cleaning up the state's abandoned mines, which contribute a significant amount of heavy metal pollution to waterways, will cost at least $314 million.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of stormwater pollution is far-reaching. Polluted stormwater can contaminate rivers, streams, and other water bodies, leading to a decline in water quality. This can have detrimental effects on aquatic life, including fish and other fauna, and can also impact the health of humans who rely on these water sources for drinking water, irrigation, and recreation.

Public Health

Stormwater pollution can also have direct impacts on public health. Contaminated water can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that can cause illnesses and other health issues in humans. Additionally, inadequate stormwater management can lead to flooding, infrastructure damage, and decreased water quality in potable water supply reservoirs, further endangering public health.

Legal Requirements

Federal and state regulations require the City of Colorado Springs to address pollution carried by stormwater runoff. The city has three main legal obligations: the Pueblo County and Colorado Springs intergovernmental agreement, federal and state stormwater permit compliance, and the 2021 federal consent decree. To meet these requirements, the city has implemented a stormwater fee to fund a dedicated stormwater funding source, ensuring sustainable funding for stormwater management and compliance with legal obligations.

Preventative Measures

Preventing water contamination is crucial, as it is much more difficult and expensive to remediate contaminated water sources. This includes implementing management practices at construction sites, agricultural lands, and well sites to prevent sediment and chemicals from washing into waterways. Additionally, proper waste disposal, such as the treatment and disposal of sewage and biosolids, is essential to prevent water pollution.

In conclusion, the cost of stormwater pollution control in Colorado is significant, both financially and in terms of the environmental and public health impacts. Effective stormwater management, pollution prevention measures, and enforcement of water pollution laws are crucial to mitigate the effects of stormwater pollution and protect the state's valuable water resources.

The role of organisations like the Colorado Stormwater Council in mitigating stormwater pollution

Stormwater pollution occurs when rain or snowmelt flows over streets, picking up trash, oil, dirt, and other pollutants. Unlike sewage, stormwater does not enter a wastewater treatment plant to be treated. In Colorado, stormwater pollution is a pressing issue, with the quality of water declining over the years. The Colorado Stormwater Council (CSC) is a membership organisation for MS4 permit holders that plays a crucial role in mitigating stormwater pollution in the state.

CSC is an organisation of local governments with storm drainage systems serving populations of over 10,000. It provides a forum for MS4 permit holders to promote the exchange of technical information, educate members, aid in the development of stormwater programs, and serve as a voice for its members. CSC works closely with the Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) to streamline permit renewal processes and incorporate innovative solutions into draft permits. Their efforts have been recognised through awards such as the 2019 National Association of Flood and Stormwater Management Agencies (NAFSMA) Award for Water Quality Communications.

CSC's role in mitigating stormwater pollution is vital, as they collaborate with municipalities and organisations to create innovative stormwater programs. They also provide resources and education to residents and community members on positively impacting stormwater quality. By joining forces, CSC helps to ensure that stormwater management practices effectively reduce pollution discharging into state waters, as mandated by federal regulations under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).

However, it is important to note that the success of CSC and other organisations in mitigating stormwater pollution is influenced by factors such as funding and staffing. For instance, the WQCD, the agency responsible for enforcing water pollution laws, faces challenges due to underfunding and understaffing. Adequate resources and support for organisations like CSC and WQCD are crucial to enhance their capacity to address the complex and evolving nature of stormwater pollution in Colorado.

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