Stormwater Management

What is Stormwater?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency defines stormwater as rain or melting snow that flows off of streets, lawns, or other sites. In natural areas, it is absorbed into the soil, filtering through the ground to recharge aquifers and replenish waterways. In developed areas, stormwater flows over land or hardened surfaces, such as rooftops, parking lots, and driveways, preventing the water from naturally absorbing into the ground. As it travels, stormwater picks up oil, chemicals, bacteria, sediment, and other pollutants, and washes it directly into a community’s storm drain system, and ultimately a nearby waterway. In addition to degrading water quality, these pollutants can clog storm drains, causing flooding, property damage, and public safety issues.