Storm drains provide a direct route for pollutants on streets to flow into our rivers, lakes and streams. Stormwater runoff is the number one problem facing our waters nation-wide, according to the EPA.
In natural landscapes, rain tends to soak into the ground gradually. Nowadays, much of the land is covered by impervious surfaces - such as streets, parking lots and roofs - where the water cannot soak into the ground. Instead, water runs off rapidly through storm sewers carrying pollutants collected along the way directly into our water bodies. Typical pollutants include grass clippings, leaves, pesticides, motor oil and pet wastes. Find out what you can do to help keep water clean.