Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater pollution?

Storm drains are intended to take rainwater straight to the rivers and lake. Rainwater or even runoff from sprinklers or hoses picks up and carries contaminants such as litter, animal waste, automobile fluids, fertilizers, and pesticides into the storm drains and pollutes the city's waterways, creating health risks for children, killing aquatic life, and contributing to localized beach closures.

2. What can I do to prevent stormwater pollution?

The following are some ways citizens can help reduce the effects of stormwater pollution:

• Keep litter, pet wastes, leaves, and debris out of street gutters and storm drains as these outlets drain directly to lake, streams, rivers, and wetlands.


• Apply lawn and garden chemicals sparingly and according to directions.


• Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints, and other household chemicals properly, not in storm sewers or drains.


• Clean up spilled brake fluid, oil, grease, and antifreeze. Do not hose them into the street where they can eventually reach local streams and lakes.


• Control soil erosion on your property by planting ground cover and stabilizing erosion-prone areas.

3. Who do I contact if I have a question about stormwater?

Contact Janet Sosnosky