Storm Water Management

How Does Storm Water Affect Our Environment?

One of the most significant, yet unrecognized groups of water contaminants is storm water pollutants. When it rains or snows, storm water flows over streets, lawns, fields and buildings to lower areas such as lakes, streams and wetlands. This runoff can collect debris, oil, grease, pesticides, fertilizers and other harmful chemicals that eventually make their way into our rivers, creeks or lakes. Unlike sanitary sewers that divert water to a treatment plant directly from your home, storm drains lead directly to surrounding lakes and rivers without any type of treatment. All the debris and pollutants that were picked up by storm water runoff end up in your lakes and streams!

Under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Program, Grand Ledge Public Schools is obligated to reduce storm water pollution to the maximum extent practicable to protect water quality and comply with the Clean Water Act. Grand Ledge Public Schools' Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) consists of six program elements:

Public Education and Outreach -- Informing citizens of the impacts polluted stormwater runoff discharges can have on water quality.
Public Participation/Involvement -- Providing opportunities for citizens to participate in program development and implementation.
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination -- Eliminating illegal discharges to the storm sewer system, including improper disposal of waste.
Construction Site Runoff Control -- Implementing an erosion and sediment control program during construction activities.
Post-Construction Runoff Control -- Protecting sensitive areas (e.g., wetlands and streams) from storm water flows resulting from development.
Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping -- Adopt pollution prevention and good housekeeping measures during facility operations.

Learn More & Get Involved!

Here are just a few ways YOU can help prevent storm water pollution:

Never dump anything down a storm sewer or drain.
Take used oil to your local quick lube or auto shop.
Dispose of pet waste in a trash can.
Wash your car on your lawn so excess water, chemicals and dirt are filtered through grass and vegetation.