What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is water from rain or melting snow that doesn't soak into the ground but runs off into waterways. It flows over surfaces such as rooftops, paved roads, parking lots, bare soil, and sloped lawns.  As the runoff flows over these surfaces, it could pick up debris, chemicals, sediment and other pollutants that may threaten the water quality in the receiving waterbody.  Polluted stormwater runoff can negatively impact lakes, rivers, wetlands and other waterways in many ways.  It can degrade drinking water quality, harm fish populations, and destroy habitats that plants and animals rely on for survival. In addition, these pollutants can make lakes, rivers, and coastal waters unsafe for recreational activities such as swimming, wading, boating, and fishing. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), approximately half of all impaired waterways are impacted by stormwater runoff from urban, suburban, and construction areas.

Common Stormwater Pollutants

Nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen): Excessive levels can trigger algal blooms, reduce oxygen in the water, and negatively affect aquatic life.
Bacteria: Originating from animal waste and illegal sewer connections, bacteria can contaminate nearby waterbodies, making them unsafe for recreational use and shellfish harvesting.
Oil and grease: Leaks and spills from vehicle maintenance can create surface sheens, unpleasant odors, and hinder oxygen exchange needed by aquatic organisms.
Sediment: Runoff from construction sites can cloud the water, disrupting habitats essential to many aquatic species.
Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers: Improper or excessive use of these chemicals can harm aquatic life and throw ecosystems out of balance.
Trash and debris: Litter can injure or kill aquatic animals, introduce harmful chemicals, and degrade the natural beauty of our waterways.

Major improvements have been made in controlling pollutants that are discharged from sewage and wastewater treatment plants. Attention is being shifted to potential sources of pollution like stormwater runoff. Stormwater management, especially in urban areas, is becoming necessary in reducing pollution in our waterways.  

To find additional information on Stormwater, visit the links below:

N. Y. S. Department of Environmental Conservation - Stormwater Homepage

U. S. Environmental Protection Agency - Stormwater Homepage

For Stormwater questions or comments, please contact:

Cindy Hilbert, MS4 Coordinator
845-795-2406 Ext. 7
chilbert@marlboroughny.us

For illicit discharge reports contact:
Tom Corcoran 
845-795-2406 Ext. 7
tcorcoran@marlboroughny.us