Why are we concerned about stormwater?
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. |
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What is being done about it?
In 1987 Congress amended the Clean Water Act to require the U.S. EPA to establish
requirements for
stormwater discharges. Phase I Stormwater 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.
The primary method to control storm water discharges is through the use of best management practices (BMP's).
Click here for more information about EPA's Stormwater regulations. |
What is Miami Conservancy District's role?
MCD has worked cooperatively with Great Miami River Watershed communities in several areas:
- Assisting them in developing municipal Stormwater Management Plans and Notices of Intent.
- Completing best management practices in public outreach and involvement.
- Completing outfall identification, which involves gathering existing storm sewer maps and other data on known outfall locations from municipalities and entering data into the Phase II Application & Database Information System (PADIS).
MCD continues to serve as a liaison to Ohio EPA to provide clarification and assistance to the regulated communities. MCD’s services are available to any jurisdiction within the Great Miami River Watershed. Please contact Theresa McGeady, (937) 223-1271, if you need Phase II assistance. |
What are common pollutants found in stormwater and the sources?
Heavy metals - brake pads, burning of fossil fuels, paint, car exhaust, electroplating
Nitrogen -fertilizers, organic matter, treated wastewater, animal wastes
Phosphorus - biodegradable detergents, animal feces, decaying vegetation
Sediment - construction sites, agriculture, exposed dirt, sand/gravel storage
Oil and grease - parking lots, roads, gas stations, oil leaks
Bacteria - animal wastes, fertilizers, improperly functioning septic systems |
