Stormwater Management

Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation from rain or snowmelt flows over the ground.  Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and streets prevent stormwater from naturally soaking into the ground.

Stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly to a lake, stream, river, or wetland.  Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into waterbodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water.

Polluted stormwater runoff can cloud water and make it difficult for plants to grow, destroying aquatic habitats.  Excess nutrients can cause algae blooms which later die and decompose removing oxygen from water affecting fish and other aquatic organisms. 

Bacteria and other pathogens can wash into swimming areas and create health problems.  Debris such as plastic bags, bottles, and can rings can suffocate fish, turtles, birds and ducks. 

Hazardous wastes can poison aquatic life which when consumed by animals or humans, can cause illness or death.

Finally, polluted stormwater often affects drinking water sources.  This can affect human health and increase drinking water treatment costs.

Lawn and Garden

• Keep grass clippings and leaves out of the curb and storm drains.

• If you collect grass clippings, utilize recycling centers for dumping or compost your clippings.

• Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly and store in a safe, dry location away from children and pets.

• Use native plants and grasses that are drought and pest resistant.  Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides.

• Cover piles of dirt and mulch being used in landscaping projects to prevent these pollutants from blowing or washing off your yard and into local waterbodies.  Vegetate bare spots in your yard to prevent soil erosion.

Water Conservation

• Water lawns in the morning using longer, less frequent waterings.  Use soaker hose when possible.

• Water sparingly to prevent chemical runoff into storm drains.

•  Do not hose driveway and sidewalk debris into street drains.

Auto Care

• Wash cars on lawn so that detergents are absorbed and do not run into storm drains.

• Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations.

Paint Disposal

• Do not pour paint down the street drain.

• Use up small leftover amounts of paint by painting a piece of cardboard, or by using it for a base coat for something you are repainting.

• If you have excess paint, put kitty litter in the paint to absorb the liquid, then place in the garbage for disposal.

Septic Systems

• Inspect your system every 3 years and pump your tank as necessary (every 3 to 5 years).

• Don't dispose of household hazardous waste in sinks or toilets.

• Presented January 16, 2008, in the Wood County Commissioners hearing room.

• Click here to view the conservation development power point presentation.

• To view Kirby Date's biography click here.

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