INTRODUCING MILLCREEK’ S STORMWATER MANAGEMENT TEAM
The Impact of Stormwater Runoff In Millcreek Township
Stormwater is the runoff of water generated from precipitation events, including snowmelt, as it flows over pervious and impervious land surfaces, such as lawns and driveways. The volume and velocity of stormwater increases in developed areas due to the addition of impervious areas, as well as the compaction of soil with the construction activities. If not accounted for, these increases can have a significant impact on potential flooding, as well as to local streams, including increased channel and bank erosion, decreased aquatic habitat, and the creation of“ flashy” streams. Stormwater problems are often complex, stemming from a combination of factors, including historic development and impacted natural resources which occurred prior to stormwater and environmental regulations being enacted both nationally and locally. Compounding the issue is the changing weather patterns. The solutions to these issues are equally complex, due to many of the same factors.
Flooding and Water Quality Management
Addressing flooding issues is a priority for Millcreek Township Supervisors and personnel. Flooding can be damaging to property, infrastructure, bridges, and roads. It can disrupt traffic and critical services and create hazardous driving conditions. General disruption from these events can also be stressful.
Protecting local waterways and water quality is equally important to Millcreek Township for environmental, recreational, and economic reasons. Clean water is essential for recreation in Lake Erie and its tributaries. Healthy streams are essential for preserving aquatic ecosystems.
Per PA DEP, Pennsylvania has seen an average 10 % increase in precipitation over the last century and can expect to see an additional 8 % increase by 2050. illcreek
MILLCREEK TOWNSHIP NEWS
Complex Solutions for a Complex Problem
Millcreek Township’ s current Stormwater Ordinance outlines the specific requirements to address post construction stormwater management related to development, including the addition of impervious surfaces in historic developed areas.
Township personnel routinely monitor specific areas within the township that are subject to historic and repeated flooding for safety during storm events. The conveyance system within the township is routinely inspected for potential damage and obstruction to flow, to ensure its peak operation. Likewise, stream crossings of local roads are regularly inspected to ensure the absence of blockages.
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Per an economic impact study completed by PA Sea Grant in 2016, the economic significance of anglers was an estimated $ 49.5 million to the Erie County economy, including the support of over 500 jobs.