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What is Stormwater?
Stormwater is water that runs off of parking lots, roads, roofs, and other hard (impervious) surfaces during rainstorms and when snow melts. Runoff often carries pollutants that can have many adverse effects on plants, fish, animals, and drinking water supplies.
Types of pollutants:
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Petroleum products and other auto fluids can poison aquatic life
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Trash and garbage clogs drainage systems
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Road salt can alter the chemical characteristics of streams and lakes
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Sediment from construction sites can destroy aquatic habitats
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Pesticides and fertilizers from residential lawns or municipal properties can impair water quality
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Bacteria and other pathogens from pet waste can create
health hazards
Stormwater is washed down storm drains or natural drainage channels and is not treated before it empties into streams, rivers and lakes.
The primary method to control stormwater runoff is through the use of best management practices (BMPs).
For Additional Information
Educational and Outreach Resources
Produced by U.S. EPA
Produced by Stormwater Consortium of Rockland County
Public Service Announcements:
Contact Information:
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland
845-429-7085
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