stormwater system are not the same? These two systems are completely different. The water that goes down a sink or toilet in your home or business flows to a wastewater treatment plant where it is treated and filtered. Water that flows down driveways and streets, into a gutter, goes into a storm drain which flows directly to a creek, lake, or river. This water may pick up pollutants along the way which are never treated.
Why stormwater is a concern to all of us:
Clean water is necessary for drinking, recreation,
agriculture and wildlife.
Where does the stormwater pollution come from?
Pollutants carried in runoff from yards, streets, parking lots, and commercial sites degrade water quality. Thornton’s storm drains flow directly to the South Platte River. By reducing the pollutants that enter our storm drains, we can minimize the risk to our water quality.
There are many types of pollutants that enter
storm drains.
Some common contaminants include motor oil,
pesticides, brake dust, pet wastes, paint, and household chemicals.
Where does the water in the stormdrains go?
Pollutants carried in runoff from yards, streets, parking lots, and commercial sites degrade water quality. Thornton’s stormdrains flow to the South Platte River. By reducing the pollutants that enter our storm drains, we can minimize the risk to our water quality.
The effects of the storm drain pollutants on our water can be harmful.
These pollutants can have harmful effects on drinking water supplies, recreational use, and wildlife. Some very popular beaches at lakes have even been closed because of contaminated stormwater.
Here’s what you can do to help:
• Limit the use of fertilizers
• Avoid chemical pesticides
• Recycle used motor oil and car batteries
• Pick up pet waste
• Wash your car on the lawn
For more information on proper disposal practices or for more information on stormwater quality call the City of Thornton at 720-977-6256. To volunteer to place stormdrain markers call 720-977-5866 or e-mail Linda.Lowe@cityofthornton.net.
H2O Jo & Flo
Streets