The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) is more commonly known as the storm drainage system. The storm drainage system collects excess rainwater (stormwater) and discharges it into our local creeks, streams, rivers and lakes. This system of inlets, pipes, channels, flumes, culverts and other components helps reduce flooding by moving excess water off roadways and away from homes, schools and businesses. The storm drainage system provides an essential service to our community. However, it is important to understand that the storm drainage system is not the same as the sanitary sewer system. The sanitary sewer system collects wastewater from kitchens and bathrooms using a series of underground pipes. It is then discharged to a sewage treatment facility where the wastewater is filtered, treated and then discharged. Stormwater is not treated prior to discharging into our natural waterways therefore anything left on the ground or in the street has the potential to become a stormwater pollutant.

Here are some things you can do to help maintain our storm drain system and keep our local waterways clean:

• Do not pour any chemicals into the storm drainage system. Paints, automotive fluids, household cleaners need to be taken to the local household hazardous waste collection center.
• Keep yard wastes like leaves, grass clipping, tree limbs or sticks out of the storm drain.
• Repair any vehicle leaks or drips immediately.
• Collect and recycle motor oil.
• Clean up spills and don’t wash them into a storm drain.
• Maintain swimming pools and septic tanks properly.
• Reduce your use of pesticides and fertilizers. Always use lawn chemicals in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Never use chemicals on your lawn when it is going to rain.
• Always pick up after your pet.

Visit the Stormwater Education page to learn more about Stormwater Pollution and Prevention.