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Urban Storm Water Education
When it Rains, it Drains
 What is Stormwater?
Runoff from natural precipitation, such as rain, snow melt, and other surface
runoff and drainage
Why is it a Problem?
Stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants, then
flow into a storm sewer system and directly into a lake, stream, river, or
wetland. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into
the waterbodies we use for swimming, fishing, and drinking water.
Effects of Stormwater Pollution:
Polluted stormwater runoff can have adverse effects on plants, fish, animals,
and people.
- Sediment clouds the water and makes it difficult for aquatic
plants to grow; it can destroy aquatic habitats.
- Excess nutrients cause algae blooms. When algae die, they sink
and decompose in a process that removes oxygen from the water. Fish and
other aquatic organisms can’t exist in water with low dissolved oxygen
levels.
- Bacteria and pathogens washed into swimming areas can create
health hazards.
- Debris - plastic bags, cans, bottles, and cigarette butts -
washed into waterbodies can choke, suffocate, or disable aquatic life like
ducks, fish, turtles, and birds.
- Household hazardous wastes like insecticides, pesticides, paint,
solvents, and used motor oil can poison aquatic life.
- Polluted stormwater can affect drinking water sources.
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