Education and Outreach

💧 What is Stormwater Runoff?

Stormwater runoff is rainwater or snowmelt that flows over surfaces like streets, parking lots, lawns, and roofs instead of soaking into the ground. This runoff picks up pollutants like oil, chemicals, dirt, and debris, which can then enter local water bodies. Communities use stormwater controls — known as best management practices (BMPs) — to reduce and prevent this pollution at its source.

Some examples of stormwater runoff:
Water flowing down a street gutter during heavy rain · Rainwater running off a parking lot into a storm drain · Water draining from rooftops and collecting in driveways.

🌍 Why Does Stormwater Runoff Matter?

Stormwater runoff matters because it can carry pollutants into local water bodies, affecting both our environment and our health.

🏭	Pollution Spread As runoff flows over streets and parking lots it picks up oil, heavy metals, pesticides, and chemicals — carrying them directly into rivers, lakes, and streams where they degrade water quality.
🐟	Harm to Aquatic Life Pollutants in stormwater runoff can be toxic to fish, plants, and other wildlife, disrupting ecosystems, harming habitats, and reducing biodiversity.
🚰	Impact on Drinking Water Contaminated runoff can eventually reach sources of drinking water, posing potential health risks to residents. Properly managing runoff helps ensure our water stays clean and safe.
🦠	Public Health Risks Stormwater runoff can carry harmful bacteria and viruses that lead to waterborne diseases and affect the health of the entire community.
🌿	Ecosystem Disruption Excess nutrients from fertilizers can cause algal blooms in water bodies. These blooms deplete oxygen in the water, harming aquatic life and disrupting natural processes.

Managing stormwater runoff effectively helps reduce pollution, protect our water resources, and safeguard both environmental and public health.

Education and Outreach

💧 What is Stormwater Runoff?

🌍 Why Does Stormwater Runoff Matter?

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