Stormwater runoff pollution is often called non-point
source pollution. It is basically rain
water that becomes polluted once earthbound, and the pollution occurs from many
sources. Sources of stormwater pollution
are driveways, streets, parking lots, construction sites, agricultural fields,
lawns, pet wastes, failing sewer systems, leaking septic tanks, and illicit
discharges such as dumping waste motor oil.
Pollutants of concern include but are not limited to oils, grease,
sediment, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, bacteria, debris and litter,
etc. Stormwater runoff can wash these pollutants through the stormdrain system
and into local streams and drainage basins.
Please remember, stormwater runoff does not flow to a treatment plant;
it flows directly into our streams and lakes.
Stormwater runoff from the City of Ocean Springs ultimately reaches the waters
you in which you fish, swim and recreate so it is imperative to implement
best management practices to better manage stormwater runoff.
What
has the City of
The City of Ocean Springs was one of thirty-one designated
cities and counties in
What
Can You Do?
The following is a list of tips that the general public may
utilize to minimize stormwater pollution:
§
Don’t dump
anything down storm drains.
§
Dispose of litter
properly.
§
Recycle.
§
Choose non-toxic
products.
§
Conserve water.
§
Keep storm drains
clear of leaves, debris, trash, sediment, and other litter.
§
Make sure septic
system is operating properly.
§
Minimize the use
of fertilizers and pesticides.
§
Practice clean
and responsible boating.
§
Wash vehicles at a car wash or where water flows
into the grass.
Links
The
following links provide sources of additional information related to water
quality and stormwater management for preventing stormwater pollution:
§
Homeowners
www.epa.gov/owow/nps/whatis Contains fact sheets, articles, and resources for general public and homeowners explaining what NPS pollution is and what individuals can do to prevent and reduce it. Topics include household chemicals, septic systems, and impervious surfaces.
http://msucares.com/pubs/infosheets/is1419.htm Correct Use of Your Septic Tank:
Contains an explanation of how a septic system works, tips for proper operation and maintenance, and the risks associated with a failing system.
http://msucares.com/pubs/infosheets/is1436.htm Household Cleaning Products:
Contains guidance on choosing the appropriate cleaner for a particular job. Provides explanation of the chemicals contained in common household cleaners and the dangers associated with each. Encourages use of less harmful cleaning chemicals with tips on making and using less harmful alternatives.
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/MDEQ.nsf/page/NPS_Education_Public_Outreach
Contains
links to a variety of public education, outreach, and involvement programs that
are available through MDEQ including programs for teachers, students, volunteer
groups, homeowners, volunteer groups, and stormwater management officials.
§
Educators
www.epa.gov/owow/nps/kids Non Point Source Kids Page:
Contains
games, puzzles, interactive activities, educators' materials, and links to
additional information.
Contains links to educational materials including classroom lesson plans, classroom activities, publications, and a variety of additional information for educators, including links to other websites.
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/MDEQ.nsf/page/NPS_Education_Public_Outreach
Contains links to information related to a variety of public education, outreach, and involvement programs that are available through MDEQ including programs for teachers, students, volunteer groups, homeowners, volunteer groups, and stormwater management officials.
The Department of Marine Resources website has a wealth of information for the general public, children, teachers, boaters, and marinas, etc. Information includes pollution prevention and marinas, non-point source pollution, stormwater runoff management and best management practices provided via the Mississippi Gulf Coast Stormwater Management Toolbox, stormwater management tools for schools, Coastal Cleanups, and workshop information for teachers.
§
Construction
Industry
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/MDEQ.nsf/page/epd_epdgeneral?OpenDocument
MDEQ Stormwater Permits:
Contains
materials including stormwater permit applications, notice of intent forms, and
guidance manuals for completing the applications and developing a Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan.
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/MDEQ.nsf/page/NPS_Urban_Stormwater_Construction
Urban Stormwater and
Construction:
Contains
a narrative description of urban stormwater impacts including construction
impacts. Provides links to stormwater
permit information and BMP design manuals for construction.
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/MDEQ.nsf/page/NPS_Publications_Literature
Non Point Source
Pollution Literature and Publications:
Contains
links to MDEQ sponsored literature and publications on non-point source
pollution targeted to the general public, construction industry, and stormwater
manager.
§ Regulations
www.epa.gov/owow/nps EPA’s Non Point Source Pollution Page:
Provides
links to information and resources in a number of categories including
publications and information resources, funding opportunities, training and
meetings, and applicable regulations.
http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/home.cfm
Contains fact sheets and guidance material related to the regulation of stormwater including information concerning Phase II Stormwater regulations.
http://www.epa.gov/owm/sw/phase2/final.htm
A copy of the EPA regulation is
available at this site
The following list is a collection of website links containing information on stormwater and general water quality. Some are specifically targeted at children and educators, and others are intended for a more general audience. A brief description of the types of information available at the website is included where possible. Please look through these and select those that will reach the target audience and address the local concerns that you intend to address in your stormwater management program.