Stormwater

Stormwater is the water that falls as precipitation and reaches the surface of the ground. Natural surfaces, like fields or forests absorb this water slowly into the ground. Developed areas that include hard, or “impervious” surfaces like roads, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, roofs, and patios prevent stormwater from absorbing into the ground. Instead, the stormwater flows on top of these surfaces and becomes stormwater “run-off.” This run-off collects pollutants as it moves. Much of our stormwater is collected by catch basins and pipes, which can direct pollutants in the water to our rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, wetlands, and Long Island Sound.

Stormwater run-off can cause problems for ecosystems and public health. Fortunately, we can all take steps to reduce pollution from run-off. Things like disconnecting impervious areas, managing the chemicals we put on the ground (lawncare, de-icing), cleaning up after our pets, and keeping our properties clean can help reduce the amount of pollutants that reach our natural systems.

Here are some fact sheets to learn more:

   Driveways

   Impacts of Development on Waterways

   Nonpoint Source Water Pollution

   Organic Fertilizer Fact Sheet

   Pet Waste

   Protecting Water Quality from Urban Runoff

   Rooftops

   Turf Management

 To learn more about Clinton’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) program or to report an Illicit Discharge, please visit:

 Municipal Stormwater | Clinton, CT