STORM WATER

Where does the Storm Sewer Go?

The water that enters storm drains typically carries pollutants such as fertilizers, oil, and leaves.  Where does it all go? . . . It goes into your nearby lake, stream or wetland.

If you look in the street outside of your home or office and search the parking lots around town, you will probably find storm sewer inlets. Did you ever wonder where they go? A common misconception about storm sewers is that they go to a wastewater treatment plant. This is not the case.  Storm sewers transport stormwater (rain and melting snow) to the nearest river, lake, stream or wetland.  Stormwater often contains materials found on streets and parking lots such as oil, antifreeze, gasoline, soil, litter, pet wastes, fertilizers, pesticides, leaves and grass clippings.  When these materials enter lakes and streams, they become pollutants that pollute the water, kill fish and close beaches.

According to federal regulations, many cities and industries must reduce water pollution from storm sewers.  We can help by taking steps around the home to increase the amount of water that soaks into the ground.  This reduces the amount of water flowing into the street. Here’s what you can do:

For more information about stormwater pollution and what you can do to reduce it, contact the Department of Natural Resources or your county UW-Extension or Land Conservation office.

CONTROLLING  STORMWATER POLLUTION – WE CAN ALL HELP

Plant trees, shrubs or ground covers. Maintain a healthy lawn.

Redirect down spouts from paved areas to vegetated areas.

Install gravel trenches along driveways or patios.

Use porous materials such as wooden planks or bricks for walkways and patios.

If building a new home, have the driveway and walkways graded so water flows onto lawn areas.

Use a rain barrel to catch and store water for gardens.

Wash your car on the lawn, not the driveway, or take your car to a commercial car wash.