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1. What is stormwater runoff?

 

Stormwater runoff is the water that flows off roofs, driveways, parking lots, streets and other hard surfaces during rain storms.  Stormwater runoff is also the rain that flows off grass surfaces and wooded areas that is not absorbed into the soil.  The runoff that is not absorbed into the ground pours into ditches, culverts, catch basins and storm sewers.  It does not receive any treatment before entering the streams and lakes.  

2. What is stormwater pollution?

Water from rain or melting snow either seeps into the ground or “runs off” to lower areas, making its way into streams, lakes, and other water bodies.  On its way, runoff water can pick up and carry many substances that pollute water.  Examples of common pollutants include fertilizers, pesticides, pet wastes, sediments, oils, salts, trace metals, grass clippings, leaves and litter.  Stormwater polluted runoff can be generated anywhere people use or alter the land, such as farms, yards, roofs, driveways, construction sites, and roadways.