What's The Problem
Runoff picks up numerous pollutants from streets, parking lots, and yards as it travels to streams
Storm drains (like those found along curbs) do not go to wastewater treatment plants. Water entering storm drains flows untreated into streams, rivers, ponds, wetlands, lakes, sounds, bays, and oceans.
Stormwater picks up and carries numerous pollutants into our waterways. Many of these pollutants can cause problems in very small amounts. Polluted stormwater runoff is so varied and so widespread that it is very difficult to address its sources.
View Stormwater Runoff Diagram
Did you know that sediment is the number-one pollutant in the country? Sediment comes from any place where soil is disturbed and is allowed to enter waterways. When it is suspended in the water, it clouds the water and suffocates aquatic life. When it settles out of water, it deteriorates habitats for fish and plants by burying stream riffles, which add oxygen to water.
Fertilizers are water pollutants as well. Fertilizers contain nitrogen and phosphorus, which promote algae growth. Excess algae crowds out other aquatic life and can cause a water body to have insufficient oxygen. This lack of oxygen is one of the primary causes of fish kills in some Oklahoma rivers.
Antifreeze and oil from cars, pesticides, and metal particles are all toxic to fish and other aquatic life. Bacteria and parasites from pet waste and leaking septic tanks can make lakes unsafe for recreational use. Stormwater runoff can also contaminate wells and groundwater.
In larger amounts, excess stormwater causes flooding and damage that is difficult and costly to clean up.
Because polluted runoff is caused by so many of our every day activities, we all need to work together to prevent it!
Source: www.nccwep.org
