What is Stormwater Pollution

First, what is stormwater? Stormwater is rainfall that does not evaporate or infiltrate the ground and eventually flows into nearby streams and rivers.

Stormwater pollution is caused by rain water flowing over the ground and picking the pollutants up. These pollutants whether natural or man made are carried into streams, creeks, and rivers. Some of the pollutants are bacteria, household hazardous wastes, oils and grease, sediments, litter and debris, fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. They can enter stormwater from leaking septic tanks, illegal dumping, illicit discharges, automobiles, construction activities, runoff from streets and parking lots, agricultural fields, and lawns. Stormwater pollution is also referred to as Nonpoint Source Pollution because there is no single point that the pollution comes from, such as industrial and sewer treatment discharge pipes. If pollutants in stormwater reach high enough levels they could cause toxic levels in our streams, creeks and rivers that could cause potential health concerns as well as kill fish and other wildlife.