Brian Barton
Stormwater pollution is a pressing issue that affects streams, lakes, wetlands, and other waterways. Stormwater runoff carries pollutants such as animal waste, litter, salt, pesticides, fertilizers, oil, and grease from streets, parking lots, and roofs into storm drains, which then discharge the polluted water directly into nearby water bodies. This can lead to oxygen depletion, harm or kill fish and other wildlife, and degrade water quality. To prevent stormwater pollution, individuals can take several measures, such as minimizing the use of impervious surfaces, properly disposing of pet waste, maintaining septic systems, directing rooftop runoff to vegetated areas, and supporting local storm water programs. Communities also play a crucial role in preventing stormwater pollution by implementing green infrastructure techniques, including rain gardens, permeable pavement, and green roofs, which help to slow down and infiltrate stormwater while allowing plants to filter out pollutants.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preventing storm drain pollution | Use green infrastructure to slow down stormwater runoff and allow plants to filter out pollutants |
| Reduce impervious surfaces and use permeable paving to allow water to infiltrate the ground | |
| Properly maintain your neighborhood stormwater pond | |
| Install a rain barrel or cistern to capture roof runoff | |
| Keep your septic system well-maintained to prevent leaks | |
| Minimize the use of ice-melt and choose environmentally-friendly alternatives | |
| Do not drain pools, spas, or fountains directly into storm drains | |
| Prevent pet waste, fertilizers, pesticides, oil, and other hazardous materials from entering storm drains | |
| Take your car to a car wash where water is filtered and recycled | |
| Check and repair fluid leaks in your car, and properly dispose of motor oil and other automotive fluids | |
| Stabilize construction sites to minimize erosion and runoff, and properly manage waste and spills |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce impervious surfaces like asphalt and concrete
Impervious surfaces such as asphalt and concrete are a major contributor to stormwater pollution. When it rains or snow melts, water runs off these surfaces and into storm drains, carrying with it a host of pollutants such as oil, grease, litter, salt, pesticides, fertilizers, and bacteria. This water then flows directly into nearby streams, rivers, and lakes without being treated, causing significant harm to aquatic life and contaminating water sources.
To reduce impervious surfaces, it is recommended to use permeable or porous pavers instead of asphalt or concrete. These pavers are designed to let water soak through, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge. TRUEGRID® is a leading provider of permeable pavers, offering durable and sustainable solutions for both residential and commercial settings.
Another way to reduce impervious surfaces is to plant trees and create rain gardens. Trees help to absorb and store rainwater, reducing runoff and erosion. Rain gardens are planted with native shrubs, perennials, and flowers, acting as natural filters for runoff water from roofs, driveways, and other impervious surfaces. They enhance the aesthetics of your property while also reducing the impact of stormwater pollution on the local environment.
In addition to permeable pavers and rain gardens, simple measures such as redirecting downspouts towards gardens or rain barrels can help minimize the impact of impervious surfaces. By dispersing rainwater onto grass surfaces or landscaped areas, it can slowly filter into the ground instead of flowing directly into storm drains.
While it may not be feasible to completely stop paving with asphalt or concrete, there are alternative materials being developed. Porous concretes and asphalts are becoming more common, providing the same functionality as traditional paving but with the added benefit of permeability. These innovative solutions are crucial to mitigating the negative effects of impervious surfaces on stormwater management and the environment.
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Minimise use of salt and fertilisers
Minimising the use of salt and fertilisers is an important step in preventing storm drain pollution. Salt and fertilisers can contaminate water sources, harm wildlife, and damage infrastructure.
Salt is often used to de-ice roads in colder regions, but it can accumulate in the environment and have negative consequences. Salt runoff can increase the salinity of freshwater sources, making them unsuitable for human consumption and harmful to aquatic life. For example, in East Fishkill, New York, a study found that over half of the private drinking water wells sampled exceeded EPA health standards for sodium due to road salt. Additionally, salt can cause oxygen depletion in bodies of water, creating low oxygen conditions that are detrimental to fish and other aquatic organisms. It is essential to minimise the use of salt and opt for more environmentally friendly alternatives whenever possible.
Fertilisers, when applied in excess or improperly, can become a source of water pollution. Lawns and plants may not be able to absorb all the water-soluble chemicals in fertilisers, leading to an excess of nutrients in water bodies. This can cause harmful algal blooms, which reduce water clarity and oxygen levels and can produce toxins harmful to humans, wildlife, and aquatic life. To minimise fertiliser pollution, it is crucial to apply fertilisers only when necessary, during the proper season, and in the correct amounts. Avoid applying fertilisers near waterways, storm drains, driveways, and sidewalks.
By following these guidelines and reducing the use of salt and fertilisers, we can help prevent storm drain pollution and protect our water sources and ecosystems.
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Properly maintain septic systems
Proper septic system maintenance is critical to protecting groundwater, lakes, streams, and human health. Septic systems are used by many homes and businesses to treat wastewater. If a septic system fails, sewage containing harmful bacteria and viruses can flow untreated into waterways, posing a significant hazard to human health.
To properly maintain a septic system, it is important to understand its basic function. Wastewater and sewage are collected in a tank, where they are slowly broken down through natural processes. The water is then released via drain lines, infiltrating the ground and undergoing further purification. This process can be disrupted if the septic system is not properly maintained, leading to potential environmental and property damage.
One key aspect of septic system maintenance is routine pumping. It is recommended to pump solids through the tank's maintenance hole regularly, typically at least every three years. Pumping frequency can vary based on tank size and the number of people in the household. By contacting a licensed professional, you can determine the optimal pumping frequency for your specific system.
In addition to routine pumping, there are several other important practices to consider. It is crucial to keep certain substances out of your septic system, including paints, medications, chemicals, grease, lint, food, feminine hygiene products, and plastics. These substances can cause blockages and pollute the groundwater. It is also important to maintain the area above the treatment area, keeping it clear of heavy vehicles and refraining from planting deep-rooted plants or vegetables.
Furthermore, regular evaluation and maintenance of your septic system are essential. This includes inspecting baffles, installing an effluent screen, and addressing any signs of a faulty or poorly functioning system. By following these practices and working with licensed professionals, you can ensure your septic system is properly maintained, preventing leaks and protecting the environment and public health.
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Wash cars at a car wash, not on the driveway
Stormwater pollution is caused by water from rain or melting snow that does not soak into the ground, instead flowing from rooftops, paved areas, bare soil, and sloped lawns, and into storm drains. This runoff water collects and transports pollutants such as animal waste, litter, salt, pesticides, fertilizers, oil, grease, and soil, which eventually end up in streams, rivers, and other waterways.
Washing your car on the driveway contributes to stormwater pollution as the water, dirt, and grime flow into the storm sewer system and local waterways. Vehicle wash water contains harmful pollutants like oil, grease, heavy metals, solvents, and soaps, which can have detrimental effects on the environment. Therefore, it is advisable to wash your car at a car wash instead of on your driveway.
Commercial car washes often recycle and treat the water they use before releasing it into wastewater treatment plants, reducing the amount of water that ends up in the storm sewer system. They also use high-pressure water nozzles, which results in less water usage compared to washing your car at home. By choosing a car wash, you can help minimize the amount of polluted water that enters the storm drains and protect the environment.
If you must wash your car at home, it is important to take precautions to minimize the environmental impact. One option is to wash your car on a permeable surface, such as grass or gravel, which allows the water to soak in and helps filter out pollutants. Using biodegradable, phosphate-free, and chlorine-free soap can also help protect the soil and reduce pollution. Additionally, you can use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose to control the amount of water used and prevent runoff.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help prevent storm drain pollution and contribute to a healthier environment for all. Remember, small actions can make a big difference in protecting our waterways and the plants and animals that depend on them.
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Direct rooftop runoff to vegetated areas
Stormwater runoff is a major source of nutrient pollution. Water from rain or snowstorms, known as stormwater, flows over streets, parking lots, and roofs, collecting excess nutrients and pollutants before entering into a storm drain or body of water. Urban and suburban areas produce much more stormwater runoff due to the high number of paved and hard surfaces.
One way to mitigate stormwater pollution is to direct rooftop runoff to vegetated areas. This can be done by installing a green roof, also known as an eco-roof, vegetated roof, or roof garden. Green roofs consist of a layer of vegetation that covers a conventional flat or moderately pitched roof. They are composed of multiple layers, including a waterproofing roof protection layer, moisture interception layer, drainage layer, leak detection layer, an engineered planting medium, and specialized plants.
The drainage layer is crucial for promoting aerated conditions and conveying excess runoff during heavy rainfall. It must be designed to handle the maximum rainfall rate associated with a one-year storm and prevent ponding of runoff in the growing medium. The selected plantings must thoroughly cover the growing medium when fully established.
Green roofs can provide runoff volume reduction and help to slow down and spread out the runoff, allowing it to slowly soak into the ground. This gives plants the opportunity to filter out pollutants. In addition, green roofs can be combined with other stormwater management practices to meet local regulations.
Another way to direct rooftop runoff to vegetated areas is by constructing a rain garden. A rain garden is a depressed area in the landscape that allows rainwater to pool and slowly infiltrate the ground. Rain gardens can be designed with specific plants that help filter and absorb pollutants, improving water quality before it enters the groundwater or stormwater system.
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Frequently asked questions
Stormwater is water from rain or melting snow that does not soak into the ground. It flows from rooftops, over paved areas, bare soil, and sloped lawns and can carry pollutants into storm drains.
Common pollutants that enter storm drains include animal waste, litter, salt, pesticides, fertilizers, oil, grease, soil, and other harmful substances.
To prevent stormwater pollution at your home, you can minimize the use of impervious surfaces such as asphalt or concrete and instead use permeable pavers or bricks. You should also properly dispose of pet waste, minimize the use of salt and ice-melt products, and avoid dumping anything down storm drains.
If you witness something being dumped into a storm drain, you should report it to your local municipal authority or stormwater contact.
Construction activities can significantly contribute to stormwater pollution due to the increased risk of erosion and the presence of various pollutants on construction sites, such as sediment, fertilizers, and hazardous waste. Construction projects disturbing an acre or more are required to obtain a permit for stormwater discharge and develop a stormwater pollution prevention plan.
