STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION FOR BUSINESSES AND HOMEOWNERS
Stormwater is rain and snow melt that runs off impervious surfaces such as rooftops, paved streets, highways, and parking lots. As 
water runs off these surfaces, it can pick up pollution such as oil, fertilizers, pesticides, soil, trash, and animal waste. Contaminated stormwater may then enter a storm drain and continue through storm pipes until it is released untreated into our local waters such as streams, lakes, and eventually Puget Sound. Our groundwater reservoirs, of which we receive our drinking water, are also subject to stormwater pollution.
When contaminated stormwater degrades water quality, it can become a public health hazard by threatening our drinking water supply and impairing habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms. It is for these reasons that the Washington State Department of Ecology has recognized stormwater as the leading contributor of pollution to the urban waterways of Washington State.
The good news is that there are many ways in which homes and businesses can reduce the threat of stormwater pollution. Simple best management practices (BMPs) can prevent stormwater pollution from endangering our water resources. To see how you can reduce your impact on stormwater pollution, click on the following links:
Updated:
January 23, 2009
