MUNICIPAL SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEM( MS4) PROGRAM
The purpose of the MS4 program is to maintain and improve water quality in creeks, streams and waterways by reducing pollutants in stormwater runoff.
What is stormwater runoff? 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.
Why is stormwater runoff a problem? Stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly to a lake, stream, river, wetland, or coastal water. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the waterbodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water.
Stormwater Pollution Solutions:
• Lawn care – Excess fertilizers and pesticides applied to lawns and gardens wash off and pollute streams. In addition, yard clippings and leaves can wash into storm drains and contribute nutrients and organic matter to streams. Don’ t overwater your lawn. Consider using a soaker hose instead of a
sprinkler. Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. When use is necessary, use these chemicals in the recommended amounts. Use organic mulch or safer pest control methods whenever possible. Compost or mulch yard waste. Don’ t leave it in the street or sweep it into storm drains or streams. Cover piles of dirt or mulch used in landscaping projects.
• Auto care – Washing your car and degreasing auto parts at home can send detergents and other contaminants through the storm sewer system. Dumping automotive fluids into storm drains has the same result as dumping the materials directly into a waterbody. Use a commercial car wash that treats or recycles its wastewater or wash your car on your yard, so the water infiltrates into the ground. Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations.
• Pet waste – Pet waste can be a major source of bacteria and excess nutrients in local waters. When walking your pet, remember to pick up the waste and dispose of it properly. Flushing pet waste is the best disposal method. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local waterbodies. eserve RESERVE TOWNSHIP NEWS
18 SHALER AREA