Watewater TreatmentDedicated to Improving Water Quality Today for Tomorrows Generation
Storm Water Monitoring
What Is Storm Water?
Storm water is what occurs following a precipitation event. Rain or snow falls on the ground and as the water moves downhill over the land it becomes "storm water".
Why Are We Concerned About Storm Water?
As water moves over yards, streets, house, driveways, etc.., it picks up pollutants and carries them with it. Most runoff is directed to a storm drain that drains to the river or stream. Thus, any pollutants on the land will be carried to the river potentially harming wildlife and possible drinking water sources.
What Is Being Done About It?
In 1987 Congress amended the Clean Water Act to require the U.S. EPA to establish requirements for storm water discharges. Phase I Storm water regulations began in 1992 followed by Phase II in 2003. Phase I regulates industrial activity and municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) with populations of 100,000 or more. Phase II regulates MS4s serving populations less than 100,000 and construction activities.
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Tips-
What Can You Do?
— Never allow any chemicals, yard wastes or any other materials to be washed down storm drains.
— Do not over apply pesticides and fertilizers, follow directions.
— Use slow watering techniques such as soaker hoses.
— Compost your leaves, grass clippings, and garden waste.
Additional Information On Storm Water
In August 2006 the City of Sidney submitted its Storm Water Management Plan to the OEPA as oneof the requirements to seek coverage under the general storm water permit. In January of 2009 theCity of Sidney received its NPDES Permit allowing it to discharge storm waters in to the state. One requirement of the permit is for the city to submit an annual report to the EPA to show the measures
we have taken to improve the water quality entering the receiving water bodies. The authority of thestorm water management can be found at chapter 919 of the City of Sidney Code of Ordinances. Theregulation regarding storm water utility fees can be found in 918 . More information on stormwater is available at http://www.epa.state.oh.us/dsw/storm/index.html the Ohio EPA’s storm water
web site.
If you would like more information regarding the Storm Water Monitoring Program, ways you canhelp protect our waterways, or report suspected illegal dumping please contact the Storm WaterTechnician, Brent Bruggeman at (937)498-8720 or BBruggeman@sidneyoh.com.